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The cultures we have studied this term show a variety of different sets of values and morals. We will analyze the following four characters for this comparison. The hero Herakles, from classical Greek culture, will be first in this discussion. Herakles’ most prominent characteristic is his great strength and skill. His quest for immortality is not brought on through desire, rather through the decree of the Gods. He proves himself to be pious before the Gods and courageous in his adventures. Next we will explore some of the characteristics of Jesus Christ. From our readings Christ shows himself as the most omniscient figure in this comparison. He is the inspiring and wise prophet of the Lord. He is pious before God, and a forgiving savior of humankind. Then we will look at the proud warrior-king Beowulf, from the Celto-Germanic tradition. As with Herakles, Beowulf is unequalled in strength and skill. His piety expresses itself in his belief in the unalterable destiny, “Wyrd”, which binds all men. Of great importance to him as well are the characteristics of loyalty to his people and courage in the face of death. Finally we will discuss the figure Quetzalcoatl in the story of the destruction of his people. Primarily Quetzalcoatl is a very benign and civilized character. He is also a very human character with aspects of his personality that are fallible and weak. While desiring the best for his people, they are ultimately wiped out by his enemy. Herakles is the most popular hero figure in classical Greek culture. His divinity is paternal. His characteristics during the labors that ultimately lead to his immortality reflect certain things about Greek culture. Like Christ, Herakles is a modest hero. He does not seek the glory of his adventures, or the power of immortality. Only after the Oracle at Delphi instructs him of the Gods will does he resign himself to his labors. This submission shows that Herakles, like Christ and Quetzalcoatl, is a pious man. An indication that the Greeks saw virtue in adhering to the will of the Gods. Herakles shares his most well known attribute, his great physical prowess, with another hero of legend, Beowulf. Both men are unrivaled in strength and maintain a proud dignity. Herakles’ pride even contradicts his piety at times, as when Eurystheus orders him to clean the stables of King Augeas. Herakles offers to perform the task in return for some cattle in order “To preserve his dignity,” (102). This ultimately nullifies his deed, but preserves his pride. The picture of Herakles, the strong, proud warrior is very similar to the Celto-Germanic tradition, and shows that Greek culture valued these attributes as well.
Approximate Word count = 1728
Approximate Pages = 6.9
(250 words per page double spaced)
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