A defining trait of a Homeric hero is the relentless pursuit of fame and honor. These heroes are not content with merely doing good deeds; they crave recognition in history and the admiration of their peers. The quest for glory and fame, or kleos in Greek, often takes precedence over family ties. Homer emphasizes this conflict by placing his warriors in situations where they must choose between family and renown. The most heroic figures almost invariably choose fame.

Andromache begs Hector to "hang back" in battle to prevent leaving their son fatherless, but Hector insists that fighting on the front lines is vital for "winning my father great glory." In contrast, Paris opts to spend time with Helen rather than fight, earning him a reputation as a coward and possible traitor. Achilles considers returning home to live comfortably with his elderly father, but he stays in Troy to achieve glory by killing Hector and avenging Patroclus's death. Each hero is aware of his fate when choosing battle over Paris's path, but they hold honor, bravery, glory, and fame in such high regard that they willingly sacrifice a long life with their loved ones.