The Iliad

Main Characters and Their Development

• Achilles - the greatest of heroes, son of the sea goddess Thetis and the mortal Peleus. His storyline centers on his anger, leading to his refusal to fight until the death of his friend Patroclus, after which he returns for revenge.
• Hector - a noble warrior, the eldest son of the Trojan king Priam and queen Hecuba, an inspirer and chief defender of Troy. He is depicted as a model of courage and honor.
• Priam - the wise and aged king of Troy, father of Hector and Paris. His desire for peace and the preservation of his people reflects his compassionate nature.
• Patroclus - a close friend of Achilles, whose death becomes the catalyst for Achilles' return to battle. His character underscores the theme of friendship and self-sacrifice.
• Odysseus - the king of Ithaca, known for his cunning and eloquence. He plays a key role in many of the Achaeans' councils and strategies.
• Agamemnon - the king of Mycenae, commander of the Achaean forces. His dispute with Achilles at the beginning of the poem serves as the spark for the main conflict.