Final answer:
Athena is the Goddess who convinces Zeus to not spare Hector's life in Iliad Book 22, reflecting her role as the goddess of warfare and wisdom. Option A is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Goddess Athena was allowed to set a plan into motion after convincing Zeus to not spare Hector's life in Book 22 of the Iliad. In Greek mythology, Athena is well-known as the goddess of warfare and wisdom.
This aligns with the surrounding narrative of the Iliad where the Olympian Gods, like Zeus, Hera, Apollo, Artemis, and others frequently involve themselves in human affairs, particularly in the Trojan War. Athena's role as a protective deity of warriors, such as in her patronage of the hero Achilles, and her prowess in strategy and combat make her a fitting character to wield such influence over the fate of Hector.
According to the narrative, the debate among the gods over Hector's life reflects the power struggles and interventions of divine beings often found in Greek epics. Athena's direct emergence from Zeus's head and her role as a goddess without a mother signify her high status and critical function in the Olympian hierarchy, and she proves her mettle once again by convincing Zeus to allow the events leading to Hector's demise.
In conclusion, Athena is the goddess who was allowed to set forth the plan that would eventually lead to Hector's death, making the correct option a. Athena.