Homer’s Iliad – Farewell of Hector and Andromache

Vocabulary flashcards covering key people, themes, symbols, and literary devices from the lecture on the farewell scene in Homer’s Iliad.

Homer

Ancient Greek poet (c. 8th century BCE) traditionally credited with composing the epic poems The Iliad and The Odyssey.

The Iliad

Epic poem recounting the events of the Trojan War, including Hector and Andromache’s farewell scene.

Epic Poem

A lengthy narrative work, often about heroic deeds and events significant to a culture or nation.

Farewell Scene

The emotional meeting near the Scaian Gates where Hector parts from Andromache and their son before battle.

Hector

Trojan prince and greatest warrior of Troy; values honor over safety despite fears for his family.

Andromache

Wife of Hector who pleads for him to stay, fearing widowhood, orphanhood for their son, and her own enslavement.

Astyanax

Infant son of Hector and Andromache; symbol of future legacy and Hector’s hope that he be ‘stronger than me.’

Duty vs. Family

Central theme contrasting Hector’s obligation to defend Troy with his responsibilities as husband and father.

Fate and Mortality

Theme highlighting the inevitability of death and Troy’s prophesied fall acknowledged by Hector.

War’s Impact on the Home

Theme showing how conflict threatens family stability, safety, and emotional bonds.

Legacy and Fatherhood

Concept of a warrior’s reputation living through his children; Hector’s wish for Astyanax to surpass him.

Supplication

Humble, earnest prayer or plea—Trojan women pray to Athena as protectors through faith.

Scaian Gates

Main gates of Troy where Hector meets Andromache, symbolizing the boundary between war and home.

Symbolism

Literary device using objects (helmet, loom, gates) to represent larger ideas like war, domestic life, and transition.

Helmet (symbol)

Represents Hector’s warrior role and the intimidation it causes even his own child.

Loom (symbol)

Embodies domestic life and Andromache’s traditional role, contrasting with Hector’s martial duties.

Foreshadowing

Technique hinting at future events, e.g., Hector’s prediction of Troy’s destruction and his own death.

Irony

Incongruity where characters mourn a living man (Hector) as if he were dead, highlighting tragic inevitability.

Pathos

Emotional appeal that evokes pity and sadness in the audience through the family’s impending loss.

Trojan Women to Athena

Ritual act of prayer showing women’s protective role and the cultural importance of divine intervention in war.