Stories of heroes and acts of heroism have become a staple throughout the history of story-telling, existing in all human cultures and reflecting the value systems of both modern and ancient societies. While these stories have provided outstanding entertainment to audiences, they have additionally educated viewers on the attributes that define a hero. Being the most renowned out of all literary works, the narratives centered around the heroic acts of Odysseus and Beowulf are notable exemplifications of these heroic qualities, as both characters idealize the elements of unity, loyalty, bravery, selflessness, and wisdom. However, as we can also see through the examination of our own modern heroic tales, the stories of Odysseus and Beowulf share…show more content… Odysseus' courage and honor are well-described in book XXIII of The Odyssey, in particular, the scene in which Penelope's devoted nurse exuberantly discloses Odysseus' audacity and success in slaughtering all of the corrupt and villainy suitors, describing him as a lion towering over his kill (Benton and DiYanni 72). Likewise, Odysseus displays his undoubted cunningness and wisdom as he recounts the many trials and tribulations he endured on his quest to return to the security of his home, such as his infamous encounter with Polyphemus, the Cyclops, whom he outsmarts, blinds, and ultimately escapes from. Respectively, recognizing Odysseus as a hero is quite simplistic after discovering the allegiance of his followers, along with the respect they regard for him and their absolute willingness to follow him into battle. This fact is clearly expressed by his son Telemachus, as he declares, “You are the best on earth, they say, when it comes to mapping tactics. No one, no mortal man, can touch you there. But we're behind you, hearts intent on battle, nor do I think you'll find us short on courage, long as our strength will last” (Benton and DiYanni…show more content… Furthermore, Beowulf's bravery and selflessness is disclosed in his hasty act to sail across the sea with his loyal followers once word of Grendel's misdeeds reached him. Regardless of the fact that he did not know those of the Danish House on a personal level, nor knew what the monster Grendel was capable of, he willingly went to their aid to rid them of their nightmare. Though Odysseus exhibited these same qualities, it was not at the same heighten level as portrayed by Beowulf, as Odysseus was more preoccupied with his own self-interest and returning home. As it can be seen in our modern heroic tales, it is obvious that the basic human ideas and concepts of heroes and heroism still remain, however, slightly updated. Qualities such as courage, loyalty, and selflessness still remain as common attributes and are clearly depicted in nearly every modern tale of heroism, as reflected by characters such as Hiro in Big Hero 6, Indiana Jones, Batman, and Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. However, in modern heroic tales, qualities such as wisdom and intelligence is further demonstrated, rather than sheer brawn, as can be seen in any of the given
