Medieval Characteristics Essay

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Comparison and Contrast: Medieval Characteristics What makes a hero, a hero? When looking back through world literature, there are many heroes. An epic hero can be described has a brave and noble character in an epic poem that is admired for their great achievements. There are many heroes throughout the ancient and classical periods. In Homer’s Iliad, there are two heroes that draw attention right away, Achilles and Hector. Both heroes are courageous soldiers, much respected leaders, and honorable men. They are depicted as classic heroes, which are strong, brave, and have many god-like qualities. Achilles is described as being swift and god-like. Hector is described as bright, dazzling, and dignified. Both men are strong and fearless leaders. Even though these two heroes are god-like, they are human. Being human means that both heroes have human flaws, which ultimately leads to tragedy. Achilles flaw that is that he is revengeful and full of wrath. Hector is noble, but his flaw is that he is proud. In Virgil’s Aeneid, Aeneas is the epic hero in this poem. He is a fearless warrior and a great leader to his men. Aeneas has many characteristics that were highly valued by the Romans during this time period. These characteristics include: courage, skill at arms, piety (obedience to the will of the gods), leadership, and determination. Aeneas was also loyal to his country and had family values. In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Sir Gawain proves that he is not only chivalrous, but has both honor and nobility. When his uncle, King Author, is challenged by a green knight to a beheading game, Sir Gawain steps in and accepted the challenge for King Author. He shows courage and loyalty to his king in this selfless act. He would never let the king accepted such a challenge. Sir Gawain would rather die than see harm come to his king. “I implore with

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