Relief depicting Achilles dragging Hector behind his chariot.

After Hector’s slaying Patroclus, who had disguised himself in Achilles’ armour and led the Myrmidons and the rest of the Achaeans into battle, Achilles renounces the wrath that prevented him from battling, and chases the Trojans back to Troy. While his men seek the refuge of the city walls, Hector remains outside, waiting for Achilles, but upon seeing his foe, is stricken with fear, and turns to flee. Achilles chases the Trojan prince around the city three times until Hector manages to take charge of his fear and face the Greek hero. After an unsuccesful volley of spears on either side, Hector grasps his sword, his only remaining weapon, and charges Achilles. Remembering the weak spot in his old armour (that Hector was now wearing after killing Patroclus), Achilles thrusts his spear through the armour and into Hector’s neck, fortunately missing his vocal cords. Here, Hector begs for an honourable burial, but Achilles has other plans. Hector dies, foreseeing that his killer will soon follow. After the Trojan’s death, the victor slits Hector’s heels and passes a girdle through, tying the body to the back of Achilles’ chariot. He then proceeds to ride back to the Danaan camp, dragging the fallen hero’s body behind through the dust.