Essay

Question 1:

Examine main qualities that define a hero. Talk about either Heracles (Hercules) or Achilles and compare/contrast that with how we define heroes today in our culture.

Answer

Heracles is one of the most popular Greek heroes. In classic mythology, Hercules was depicted unbelievably strong and courageous. His deeds were so mighty that when he died, he was brought to Mount Olympus to live with gods. As the son of Zeus and a mortal woman, Alcmene, Hercules was destined to be a hero. Hercules remains the Greek hero as an extraordinary man who often combines his courage and strength as a hero (Harris, pp 277). His heroism and adventures were depicted by Disney in many movies. Hercules is perhaps the most well known Greek hero, not only in ancient times, but also in modern culture. Perhaps this is because of his many adventures and many trials he suffered before finally obtaining immortality. Although Hercules was the son of the most significant figures in Greek mythology, the story of his life can be interpreted as the story of every-man who struggled, endured all the hardship prepared for him, made mistakes, overcame difficulties, and tried to fulfill the purpose of his life. Hercules was not a "killing machine" but he had accomplished his labors to be justified in the context of the social and ethical values of his society (Harris, pp 77).

Hercules is not depicted as superhero who never does anything wrong. On the contrary, some of his actions are depicted as cruel and unforgivable. As Harris states, he is also capable of animal-like behavior, sometimes committing ridiculous, irrational and violent acts. But he is also capable of accepting punishment for wrong deeds. The story also implies that wrong deeds should be punished regardless of the time and society one lives in (Harris, pp 67). He will remain the icon for many centuries ahead as an example of a strong, intelligent and brave man. The Hercules' story deals mainly with the notion of battle, or good versus evil. It is also a story of an ordinary man, living, struggling, loving, and fighting for a better life.

While Heroes by today's standards can be many things, such as firefighters, teachers, or cops. This wasn't always what the word hero was once intended to mean. What a hero is in present day is surprisingly different than what a hero once was. In ancient times ...