Hecuba is a character from Greek mythology and literature who has been immortalized in many works over the centuries. She was originally the wife of King Priam of Troy, but she later became queen after his death during the Trojan War. In Homer's Iliad, she plays an important role as both a grieving mother and a strong leader for her people. Her story has been told and retold through various mediums, such as epic poetry, drama, opera, film, and even video games.
In Greek mythology, Hecuba was known to be brave yet kind-hearted, despite all that had happened to her family during the war. After being taken captive by Odysseus following the fall of Troy and brought back to Greece with him on his journey home from battle (as recounted in The Odyssey), she gained revenge by convincing Agamemnon's daughter Electra to help kill their captor Palamedes before they arrived at their destination, thus exacting justice for herself against those responsible for destroying her homeland.
The legend of Hecuba also appears in some versions of the Aeneid, where Virgil recounts how she escaped captivity with help from Minerva (the goddess Athena). Later on in this version of events, it is said that once safely away from danger, she took refuge among the Thracian women until finally settling down near Mount Olympus, where Zeus granted her immortality so that no one would ever harm or enslave her again. However, there are other interpretations that state instead that upon arriving at Mt. Olympus, Zeus gave her power over dogs instead, allowing them to serve under her rule forevermore.
Hecuba's influence can still be felt today within literature: modern authors continue referencing aspects related specifically to Hecuba, including themes like female strength and resilience; grief and loss due to conflict or war; hope amidst despair; betrayal and vengeance justly served, etc. All these topics have become popular subjects for writers across different genres, highlighting why they remain relevant despite their ancient roots in classical antiquity.