Final answer:
Hector is considered an epic hero in 'The Iliad' because of his embodiment of the Greek virtue of arete and his central role in key events that mark him as a heroic figure in ancient Greek culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
In The Iliad, one reason Hector can be considered an epic hero is because he embodies the Greek virtue of arete, which signifies excellence and success in both moral and physical aspects. Hector's actions throughout the epic show his strength, bravery, and commitment to his city and family, which are all aspects of the heroic ideal in ancient Greek culture. He is also involved in key events that reflect epic storytelling, such as defending Troy, fighting Achilles, and ultimately facing his fate.
Homer's epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey, are renowned for their portrayal of larger-than-life characters from the Mycenaean age, through which they convey the values, beliefs, and practices of ancient Greeks to later generations. Hector, as one of the central figures of The Iliad, is no exception in this rich tapestry of heroic narrative, and his tale contributes to the multiplicity of plots that define the epic as a genre distinct from other narrative forms like tragedy.