No saint nor sinner has ever escaped that final tragedy. Even the happiest man who ever lived had tragedy in his life, whether it was felt by him or only by those around him, the fact remains that it was there. Homer provides us with multiple examples of virtuous and powerful people who fell into tragedy. Hector and Achilles both had honor, glory, power, and wealth, yet neither could escape the great equalizer or his companions. Hector loses his city, his companions and his life. The gods had told Achilles that if he fought, he would gain unparalleled glory, but in exchange he would lose his life. He wonders whether to fight and die with honor and fame or escape a shameful coward and live. Eventually his survival instincts prevail and he plans to return home when Patroclus dies. Patroclus and Achilles, although unrelated, ties there rivaled the closest of familial ties. His death destroyed Achilles, his death tipped the balance in Achilles' mental battle. But honor, virtue and glory did not save Achilles. Indeed, most of the characters celebrated for their virtue and power ended up suffering great tragedy. Pain, sadness and death flood these pages and not even divine intervention