World Literature 26/10/2013 The Not So Obvious Hero Throughout History we see man that stand out and are called heros who are admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, and noble qualities. Odysseus the great greek Warrior is one of the most famous heroes of history. His intelligence and charisma made him well known even into the 21st century. But what about other ancient characters? Abraham the father of the nation of Israel has lived such a different live than Odysseus the emblem of heroism but even though throughout Abrahams live he proves over and over again that he is also worthy of being called an Epic Hero.
Certainly he is in search of fame. Though this is true it must not discount his brave actions. He gains his fame truthfully by doing battle with menaces to society. He does not lie or manipulate to achieve fame, he uses what is rightfully his, his bravery. Beowulf's bravery differs from that of King Arthur's for several reasons.
Odysseus: A True Heroic Figure “But I would not give way.” This simple, yet strong, inspiring quote was stated on page 218 of book 9 of the Odyssey by the heroic figure Odysseus, when his crew members were ready to take everything they could escape with and avoid confrontation with the menacing Cyclops. Even though this six letter quote is short and to the point, it shows how determined Odysseus really is. I believe that Odysseus is a strong heroic figure in Greek mythology. His best qualities that reflect his heroic character are his cleverness, caring heart for his crew members, and his strong determination. Although this crafty hero has many other great qualities, these qualities are the highlights of his character.
The hero should have great deal of confidence and not to be insulted in any way do to the heroes pride which was the glory and within glory there was immortality. In the Iliad there is a counter hero, the contrast of Achilles, the great Hektor – whom contrasts Achilles in every way and finds himself not in the out front of the book like Achilles but still is as important as Achilles, Achilles being the personal hero striving for greatness and Hektor, the hero who follows the laws of external responsibility, family man with his allegiance to his city and duty. Is there need for Hektor in the Iliad? Did Achilles become more fierce do to the fact that Hektor the great Trojan is there is well? Achilles Achilles´s wrath is triggered by his pride and honor, the pride of being a Greek and his honor comes from his desire for greatness and immortality.
No person can ever surpass his greatness for Beowulf expected nothing in return but fame and reverence, aspects he certainly deserved. Any of whom who come to mourn, know this; Beowulf did not die for nothing, he died protecting his people, that alone is something to respect him for. “Thus Beowulf bore himself with valour; he was formidable in battle yet behaved with honour and took no advantage.” (2177-2179) Beowulf is not just good at fighting – he's also morally good. He doesn't take undue advantage of his enemies or his friends. But that's almost an afterthought; it's much less important to the storyteller than his prowess in
Even if he died at the age of 32, he had always been a successful and genius statesman, commander and contributor to the socio-cultural life rather than brutal warrior so that he became Alexander the Great. Being a successful statesman is not a surprising feature of Alexander the Great since he bound such a vast land together as an empire with his genius mind with no brutality but tolerance. Firstly, Alexander was a genius in terms of politics because his decisions which are consulted wise men or which are taken by himself was generally successful. For example, when Alexander vanquished the Persian ruler Dorius and took the Iran, the existence of Iran princes disturbed him and he was confused about whether to
Odysseus emerges as a true epic hero when he overcomes all these obstacles, and reunites with his wife and son after twenty years. Odysseus’ most precious trait is his intelligence. This is proved many times throughout the epic, but especially when Odysseus and his men land onto Cyclopes’ island. Polyphemus, a giant, eats six of Odysseus’ men as he is angry with them. Odysseus’ quick thinking helps him and his men escape the island of Cyclops.
Amber Hill Iliad Essay Professor Hicok February 25, 2013 Hector: A True Hero Bravery and courage are some attributes commonly used to distinguish a hero. The Iliad is packed with warriors pursuing the title of epic hero. However, each warrior may hold a slightly different perception of true justice. Notorious Achilles steals center stage, despite the fact that he spends the majority of the epic avoiding the war. Attempting to defeat the ranks of Achaeans is Hector.
Finally, the fate of a tragic hero does not leave the audience in a state of depression, but draws solemn emotions of pity and sympathy. Oedipus, King of Thebes is a prime example of a tragic hero, as defined by Aristotle because he posses all of the characteristics necessary to be classified as such. To be a tragic hero, one must be of noble stature and greatness. This applies perfectly to Oedipus, as he is the king of Thebes. He was not born into this position, rather acquired it for solving the riddle of the riddle of The Sphinx.
Oedipus saves the citizens from the totalitarian rule of the Sphinx, by solving the difficult and complicated riddle. Then again, near the conclusion of the play, Oedipus shows courage and self-sacrifice for the benefit of his people. He gouges out his own eyes and exiles himself from Thebes to save his people from the devastating plague. All this is evidence of Oedipus’ abundance of integrity and overall heroic qualities, in turn exhibiting his morality, virtue, and nobility. Oedipus is undoubtedly a righteous hero.