English 1DE Period 2B
The Iliad, translated by Richard Lattimore, book 6 line 130:(Hektor speaking to Andromache before he faces Achilleus
“When some bronze-armored
Achaian leads you off, taking away your day of liberty,
in tears; and in Argos you must work at the loom of another,”
Hektor’s strength is his bravery, which is a must have quality in all ancient heroes. Other desirable qualities included taking a stand for others and being noble. Someone who is altruistic could also be a hero. Through the Ottawa Food Bank ordinary people donate food and money for those who who don’t have the good fortune of having enough food. But, there’s more to being a hero than altruism.
The activists at Standing Rock were ready to battle against one of the biggest dangers to the environment in transnational corporations who exploit natural resources. Many fought to protect the local community of Standing Rock and the Earth. But still they don’t fit the criteria.
While Hektor was an activist, he didn’t fight for social change. He defended his values, his city, and his family against Achilleus. While likely to die, he was more than willing to fight. His protest and resistance was a very physical one, just like the Standing Rock protesters; both activists were brave and held their ground against brutal conquest. Hence, both share some of today’s standards of heroic qualities. As greek mythology required more that just good qualities for heroism, Hektor lacked a quest or a companion to accompany. His death was not for the greater good, though the Iliad is confusing when it comes to who is actually righteous. In the end, history is written by the victors, in this case the Greeks.
Other Hektor’s throughout history also died taking a stand,such as Malcolm X, who was murdered for his beliefs, and for protecting the rights of others. Though many disagreed with what he preached, he is regarded as a hero by some, and a racist by others depending on perspective. Perspective is the domain of Greeks in the Iliad, therefore the enemy wouldn’t be the hero of a Greek story.
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