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Hector of Troy
How to Embody The Epitome of Masculinity
Hello Enlightened Readers,
Hector of Troy is the gold standard of what a man can aspire to be.
He is the answer to any crisis of masculinity, standing miles above the masses of mediocrity.
As a Trojan prince in Homer’s Iliad (the ancient Greek epic poem), Hector has, throughout the ages, inspired young men to strive for greatness.
In Homer’s Iliad, Hector is a protector, a leader, and a man of deep integrity. He dedicates himself to his family, his city, and his people, embodying virtues that transcend time: honour, bravery, compassion, service, and strength.
His example teaches us that true masculinity is not defined by dominance or aggression but by the strength to serve with purpose, love, and sheer grit.
To be like Hector is to open your heart to the world and to act with good intentions. All it takes is a little courage…
"My doom has come upon me; let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that shall be told among men hereafter."
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Defining Hector
Hector is more than a prince of Troy—he is its beating heart. A general at the head of its armies, he stands tall, carrying the weight of an entire city on his shoulders.
Unlike his rival, Achilles, who fights for personal glory and revenge, Hector fights for something far greater: the survival of his people. While Achilles is consumed by rage, Hector is guided by duty, love, and an unshakable moral compass.
But Hector is not just a selfless leader—he is also a warrior of unmatched skill and bravery. On the battlefield, his spear does not waver, and his shield is as steady as the walls of Troy itself.
His courage is legendary, inspiring reverence from his allies and even grudging respect from his enemies.
Yet behind this thick layer of valor lies a man torn between two worlds: the love he holds for his family and the duty he bears as Troy’s protector.
In the quiet moments before battle, Hector is not immune to doubt. He thinks of his wife, Andromache, and their young son, Astyanax, whose laughter echoes in his mind like a distant melody. He longs for the peace that he’ll will never have.
What truly sets Hector apart is this inner conflict that shapes his character. How does a man balance the weight of his own heart with the expectations of an entire nation?
For Hector, the answer is clear, though it comes with a heavy price. He chooses to release his personal attachments—his longing for the warmth of his family and even his own life—and dedicates himself wholly to his duty.
In doing so, Hector becomes more than a man; he becomes a symbol of self-sacrifice, courage, and noble masculinity.
"I must not be a coward, I must not shrink from battle, but stand forth to bear my part of the bitter end."
Hector and Andromache | "I would rather die and be buried in the earth than hear your cries as you are dragged away." - Iliad Book 6 Interpretation: Hector shows his deep love and concern for Andromache, reflecting his dread of her fate if Troy falls. |
"And fate? No man alive has ever escaped it, neither brave man nor coward, I tell you— it’s born with us the day that we are born."
How to Be Like Hector
Hector’s masculinity is defined by four elements:
Imperturbable
Wholly Loving
Fully Present
All-Pervading
Hector remains unshaken in the face of challenges. The world cannot intimidate him because he stands firm within himself, anchored by an infinite reservoir of inner strength.
He serves his country with profound love and devotion, letting his actions and intentions be guided by a deep, unconditional love for both his nation and his family.
A man like Hector engages with the present moment with complete awareness, experiencing life fully without distraction or hesitation. His presence extends beyond himself, touching and shaping the world around him. Throughout the Iliad, Hector’s spirit pervades the emotions of Andromache, helping her overcome her fears and sadness.
To be like Hector, you must see life as a grand theatrical play, filled with ups and downs, glorious triumphs, and unexpected pitfalls. Yet, in the end, you must always rise and stand victorious, undefeated in spirit.
Can You Live Up To This Ideal? |
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