Achilleus (Achilles) is primarily motivated in his battle with Hector by revenge for the death of his close friend Patroclus, who was killed by Hector. This loss inflames Achilles’ rage and compels him to return to battle despite previously withdrawing due to a dispute and disillusionment. Achilles’ motivation is also tied to his heroic desire for eternal glory (kleos), choosing to fight knowing it may cost him his life, but securing a lasting heroic legacy.
Revenge for Patroclus' Death
Achilles’ main driving force in fighting Hector is avenging Patroclus. Patroclus had worn Achilles’ armor and was killed in combat by Hector, which deeply wounds Achilles emotionally and fuels his wrath toward Hector. This personal loss surpasses earlier conflicts and motivates a relentless pursuit to kill Hector and honor Patroclus' memory.
Desire for Glory
Achilles, aware of a prophecy foretelling that he would either have a short but glorious life or a long obscure one, chooses to embrace glory on the battlefield by confronting Hector. This aspect of his motivation reflects the ancient heroic ideal of achieving immortal fame through heroic deeds, even at the cost of his own life.
Rage and Honor
Achilles’ rage is a key theme in the epic. His initial withdrawal from battle is caused by wounded pride and a dispute with Agamemnon, but it is transformed into fierce wrath after Patroclus’ death. His anger drives not only a desire for revenge but also a symbolic assertion of honor and superiority through the defeat of Hector.
In summary, Achilles is motivated in his battle with Hector by a combination of intense personal revenge for Patroclus and his heroic aspiration for eternal glory, with his wrath and honor deeply intertwined in the pursuit of these goals.
