Table of ContentsThe Hero's JourneyThe Call to AdventureThe Characteristics of the HeroThe Enduring AppealBibliographyOnce upon a time, in a faraway land, there lived a noble and courageous hero. This hero was not just any ordinary hero; they possessed extraordinary strength, courage and intelligence. Their epic adventures and quests have captivated the hearts and minds of all who have heard their stories. In this essay, we will explore the concept of an epic hero and analyze examples from various literary works. Through the examination of these characters, we will discover the qualities that define an epic hero and the importance of their existence in literature. Ultimately, this essay aims to highlight the enduring appeal of the epic hero archetype. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Hero's JourneyOne of the defining characteristics of an epic hero is his journey. Whether it is a physical or emotional journey, the hero must overcome various obstacles and trials. In Homer's Odyssey, the hero Odysseus undertakes a perilous journey back to his homeland after the Trojan War. Throughout his adventure, he encounters mythical creatures, faces the wrath of the gods and endures numerous trials. Despite these challenges, Odysseus remains resilient and determined, showcasing his heroic qualities. Similarly, in JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins undertakes a monumental quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the forces of evil. Along the way, he encounters dangerous landscapes, battles fierce enemies, and struggles against the corrupting influence of the Ring. Frodo's journey is not only physical but also psychological and moral. His unwavering commitment to his mission and his ability to resist the temptations of power make him a true epic hero. The Call to Adventure Another crucial aspect of the epic hero story is the call to adventure. This calling often comes in the form of a quest or mission that the hero must undertake. In The Epic of Gilgamesh, the eponymous hero is called upon to defeat the monstrous creature Humbaba and gain eternal fame. Gilgamesh's journey is not motivated solely by personal gain; he is driven by the desire to leave a lasting legacy and prove his worth as a hero. Similarly, in the Arthurian legend of King Arthur, young Arthur is chosen by the magical sword Excalibur and becomes the rightful king of Britain. This call to adventure propels Arthur into a world of knights, chivalry and quests for the Holy Grail. As a former and future king, Arthur embodies the qualities of a true epic hero, such as bravery, honor and justice. Characteristics of the Hero Although the hero's journey and call to adventure are important elements of the epic hero archetype, these are the characteristics of the hero. that truly define them. Epic heroes possess a combination of physical prowess, intellectual insight, and moral integrity. These qualities distinguish them from ordinary individuals and make them worthy of admiration and respect. In the case of Achilles in Homer's The Iliad, his exceptional strength and skill in combat made him the greatest warrior of the Trojan War. However, it is his sense of honor and loyalty to his comrades that truly sets him apart as an epic hero. Even in the face of his imminent death, Achilles chooses to fight for the glory of his name and the pride of his people. Similarly, in Virgil's Aeneid, the hero Aeneas possesses not only physical strength but also a deep sense of duty and piety. . In.