* Closure and reconciliation: The story has been consumed by the wrath of Achilles and the grief of the Trojans. The burial of Hector, though a somber event, marks a moment of closure. It signifies the end of the immediate conflict and the start of a process of healing and reconciliation.
* Respect for the dead: While the story is about war and revenge, it also emphasizes the importance of respect for the dead, regardless of their role in the conflict. The proper burial rites for Hector are a way of honoring him and demonstrating that even in war, there are still some universal human values.
* End of Achilles' rage: The burial of Hector is the culmination of Achilles' journey. He finally releases his anger and accepts Hector's death, allowing him to find some peace. This action signifies the end of his destructive path and a return to a more balanced state.
* Reestablishment of order: The burial of Hector, even though it is a somber act, brings a sense of order back to the world. It allows both sides to begin the process of rebuilding after the war and creates a path towards some sort of future peace.
* Themes of fate and mortality: The Iliad ultimately examines the themes of fate and mortality. The story emphasizes the inevitability of death and the importance of acceptance. The burial of Hector serves as a reminder of this universal truth, reminding the reader that even the greatest warriors and heroes are not immune to the cycle of life and death.
In essence, the burial of Hector is a powerful moment of closure and reconciliation in the Iliad. It marks the end of the immediate conflict, allows Achilles to find peace, and reminds the audience of the universal values of respect for the dead and the inevitability of fate.