Question

Describe the perfect hero. Use examples from any of the assigned course readings in Part 1 to illustrate your perspective on the perfect hero. For example, choose a character from any of the fictional texts you have read in the course (also listed below) to demonstrate characteristics that make the perfect hero. If choosing an elegiac poem such as "The Seafarer" consider how the theme of heroism could be represented in the poem.
Some Fictional Texts Read in the Course

The Seafarer on pp 18-25

The Wanderer on pp 27-29

The Wife's Lament on pp 30-31

Beowulf on pp. 40-64

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight on pp 171-204

Macbeth on pp 322-339; rest of Macbeth on pp 343-415



Your essay should contain at least three (3) paragraphs with introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph should contain at least five (5) full sentences. Pay attention to grammar, style, and organization / flow of ideas for your discussion. help

Answer 1

The idea of a hero is seem represented in many cultures and showing different traits accordingly with the context. Per example, Robin Hood was a perfect hero for the poor but for the people he stole the money from he was just a thief and a criminal. In some cultures, the heroes are immortal or superior beings with super-powers, but sometimes they are just humans with greater qualities and virtues. Some of the main characteristics of the perfect hero includes having courage; virtuosity; sacrifice; determination; responsibility. Sometimes comedy plays with this characteristics building the anti-hero.

In "The Seafarer" the hero goes into to sea assuming all the risks and with his eyes and heart on the waves and the sea. The Seafarer knows he might drown in the high waves of the sea. He fights against the harsh weather of the winters on the ice-cold sea, as it was a beast and internally with the restless mind, which he has to fight against its violence. By the end of his trip he comes back to the land and with faith goes on believing in something greater. The seafarer holds the skills for going into the sea and carrying on what he needs to with virtuosity searching for eternal life rather than keeping treasures that will be buried with his body.  In "The Seafarer" we see the perfect hero as he takes responsibility for his path. He assumes the consequences of his journey without defeat, honouring himself in the role of the Seafarer. He then confronts external and internal challenges with courage and determination. Nevertheless, the perfect hero is modest, so he never forgets his masters and creators. His God inspires him and helps he moves himself with faith, sacrificing himself for the salvation of his soul and higher values of his Lord.