Hector: Loser Leader in Iliad

Nattapat Pattana

Burapha University, Thailand

ABSTRACT

This qualitative study aimed to examine Hectors leader attributes for the conformity with contemporary leadership theories and to explore the factors or flaws which caused him to become a loser leader in Homers The Iliad. The study was conducted through narratives describing Hectors actions and thoughts and conversation between Hector and other characters. The data was analysed in form of descriptive analysis based on the qualifications of leader scoped by ethical leadership theories namely authentic leadership, servant leadership, spiritual leadership, and transformational leadership. The result showed that Hectors actions and thoughts reflected ethical leader qualifications specified in ethical leadership theories but mostly authentic leadership, servant leadership and spiritual leadership, respectively. The flaws obviously seen throughout the story were his obstinateness in his idealistic self-sacrifice and pride of kingly power. These two flaws led him to his firmness to heroism and fame and this brought him to failure and death. The findings revealed that to be a successful leader, ethic solely is not enough but openmindedness, flexibility in leadership and wisdom in exercising of power are more powerful and beneficial to leaders’ success.

KEYWORDS

Hector, Ethical Leadership, The Ilia