The Iliad

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What Was Hector’s Attitude to Paris?

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What was Hector’s attitude to Paris? [NU:  2013, 15] ★★★

Homer (c. 800-701 BCE) presents war, honour, and family bonds in his well-known epic “The Iliad” (762 BCE). Hector and Paris are brothers, but their attitudes differ. Hector often criticises Paris for weakness, yet he also shows love and concern as a brother.

Criticism of Cowardice: Hector feels Paris is not brave in war. He blames him for avoiding battle. Hector says Paris brings shame to Troy. 

“Thy hate to Troy, is this the time to show?”

He calls him cowardly for hiding while others fight. This shows Hector’s frustration. He values courage and responsibility above all.

Rebuke for Helen’s Abduction: Hector also criticises Paris for taking Helen. He thinks this action has brought disaster. The war, deaths, and sufferings come from Paris’ deed. Hector shows anger that Paris puts love over duty. Paris admits Hector’s rebuke is fair, s

aying, 

“Brother, ’tis just … Thy free remonstrance proves thy worth and truth.” 

This reply shows Paris respects Hector’s advice. It proves Hector’s sense of duty to Troy. The rebuke reflects responsibility and brotherly honesty.

Brotherly Love: Despite criticism, Hector still loves Paris as a brother. He advises him but does not reject him fully. Hector wants Paris to fight with honour. He knows Paris has strength if guided. This balance of rebuke and love shows a real brotherly relationship.

To sum up, we can say that Hector’s attitude to Paris is mixed with blame and care. He scolds him for weakness and Helen’s abduction. Yet he still loves him as a brother. Homer shows both realism and human emotion.

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from The Iliad