Page 13 - GALIET THE WALL, THE SPEAR, THE ROSE AND THE QUEST FOR THE 4 CARDINAL CORNERS: Hektor of Troy IV

By contrast, Hektor’s blindness when making decisions becomes his tragic flaw. Only at the end, Hektor recognizes that his defeat is a result of his folly. Another important aspect to consider, beyond Achilles or Hektor being predatory or victim, seeing or blind, is that both heroes become victims of hubris and of the expectations of their society. The wrath of Achilles and the overconfidence of Hektor show not only the destructive power of hubris but also the endless cycle of revenge, which, contrary to expectations, does not restore balance within the community7. We shall see that Paris will also avenge Hektor’s death by killing Achilles.
Hektor is deeply torn between his private and public duties. King Priam pleads with Hektor to return to the inner sanctum of the walls so that, by preserving his life, he may protect Ilion, his family and its citizens. Both Schein and Pope agree and understand that King Priam’s prime concern, if Hektor dies, is towards the loss of family and of Troy while Queen Hecuba’s primary concern is the devastating thought of loosing her child, once nurtured by her breast. King Priam and Queen Hecuba behave according to their proper roles: the king shows concern for
7 This position is stressed in Aeschylus’ Oresteia. Revenge brings more hatred and violence where restoration is not possible.
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