By The Waters Of Babylon Literary Analysis

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It’s not unusual for someone to venture out into the world in search compelling answers to some of life’s most complicated questions. In fact, this concept has led people to write some of the greatest works of literature of all times, the epics. One of our earliest epic heroes, Gilgamesh, set off into the world seeking immortality, but gained something altogether different and perhaps more profound than his original intent. Many years later, Odysseus also set out on an arduous journey which ended up helping him acquire knowledge that he never sought out actively. Travelling outward is indeed a powerful and timeless way to find invaluable inward knowledge. Once again, this theme of quest and acquisition of knowledge is featured in the modern short story, By the Waters of Babylon, written by Stephen Vincent Benet. Although this story may not be what comes to mind when we consider the epic journeys, when we compare this story to the typical patterns in epics, it is evident that John’s intriguing adventure gives him an opportunity to broaden his view of society, which enables him to rethink all he has ever been taught. Viewing By the Waters of Babylon through the framework of an epic archetype enables us to see that …show more content…
In our twenty-first century, we tend to value the ordinary citizen over the leaders because everyone is equal. In spite of his priestly birth, John proves himself to be worthy do to his actions, not his blood. The challenges he faces are common to everyone who understands internal struggle and conflict. In fact, modern quests might take us inward rather than outward. Unlike his spoiled and glorified predecessors, John is a hero who speaks to all of us. We understand his values of promoting simplicity and individuality for everyone via his accessible journey. None of us are immune to his inward struggles. The lessons learned are also more pertinent to the rocky road we face with
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