Troilus and Cressida · Chapter
Scene IX explained
The Greek commanders hear the news that Hector has been slain by Achilles, and Agamemnon declares that Troy is now as good as won.
What happens
The Greek commanders hear the news that Hector has been slain by Achilles, and Agamemnon declares that Troy is now as good as won.
Themes in this chapter
War and Futility
The death of Hector, a noble warrior, underscores the senseless loss and the grim reality that even the greatest heroes fall in war.
Honor and Glory
Ajax's remark that Hector was 'as good as' Achilles highlights the theme of honor and the recognition of a worthy opponent even in death.
Characters to notice
- Agamemnon
Leads the Greek commanders, hears the shout of Hector's death, and orders a messenger to summon Achilles.
- Ajax
Acknowledges Hector's death but insists that Hector was as great a man as Achilles.
- Menelaus
Present among the Greek commanders marching on the plains.
- Nestor
Calls for silence to hear the shout announcing Hector's death.
- Diomedes
Confirms the rumor that Hector has been slain by Achilles.
Key passages
“The bruit is, Hector’s slain, and by Achilles.”
The rumor is that Hector has been killed, and Achilles did it.
Diomedes confirms the widespread report of Hector's death.
“Great Hector was a man as good as he.”
The great Hector was just as fine a man as Achilles.
Ajax insists on Hector's equal worth, refusing to diminish his honor despite his defeat.
“If in his death the gods have us befriended, Great Troy is ours, and our sharp wars are ended.”
If the gods have favored us by letting Hector die, then Troy is ours and the bitter war is over.
Agamemnon interprets Hector's death as a divine sign that the war will soon end in Greek victory.