Hector & Andromache — The tenderest farewell in the "Iliad"
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Hector & Andromache

The tenderest farewell in the "Iliad"

EraGreek myth · Homer
Country / cultureTroy
CategoryTragic love
Type of loveDevotional
EndingTragic
TypeHistorical (real)
Quick answer

The Trojan prince Hector and his wife Andromache part on the walls of Troy before he goes out to fight Achilles; Hector dies, Troy falls, and Andromache loses everything.

01Why it matters

Their farewell is one of the most human and moving passages of the "Iliad."

02The conflict

The Trojan War and Hector's duty to defend the city.

03The iconic moment

Hector removing his helmet so as not to frighten his son at the farewell.

04What survived

The "Iliad"; the "Andromache" of Euripides and Racine.

05Frequently asked questions

Who were Hector & Andromache?

The Trojan prince Hector and his wife Andromache part on the walls of Troy before he goes out to fight Achilles; Hector dies, Troy falls, and Andromache loses everything.

Why is the story of Hector & Andromache famous?

Their farewell is one of the most human and moving passages of the "Iliad."

How does the story of Hector & Andromache end?

Hector removing his helmet so as not to frighten his son at the farewell. The "Iliad"; the "Andromache" of Euripides and Racine.

Is the story of Hector & Andromache real?

Yes, Hector & Andromache is based on real people and events.

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