Theseus A Hero Analysis

In Greek mythology, a hero's actions and qualities play an important role in their society.
Myths such as, Theseus where he must make his way through the labyrinth and kill the minotaur, and Perseus, where he dared to bring back the head of a gorgon, but exceeds more than what he is told to do. Both of these myths exhibit a hero with many different but important qualities that are needed to succeed. The most principal characteristics a hero should have are bravery, and the thirst for adventure because without those, you would not be able to triumph in your doings. Bravery in a person is key to succeeding treacherous events. In Theseus, he shows us that he is brave when he, “came forward and offered to be one of the victims” (Hamilton 212) while having a plan to kill the minotaur so no one else has to be murdered. Theseus believed in himself, he had the bravery to kill the minotaur with

Theseus volunteered to go into the labyrinth because he wanted the adventure that came along with it. In fact, he was so caught up in his adventure that he broke his promise to his father which was,”if he succeeded, he would have the black sail changed to a white one” (Hamilton 212) so that it would be known that he succeeded at his task and is returning alive. He was too busy thinking about everything that had happened in the labyrinth that he forgot to change the sails which gave his father false hope then committed suicide. Theseus’ thirst was very strong to end the story in such a way. Perseus’ thirst for adventure was when he willingly went off to kill Medusa, knowing the horrible consequences that could take place if something went wrong. Being the courageous hero he is, he, “aimed a stroke down at Medusa's throat. With a single sweep of his sword he cut through her neck” (Hamilton 204) thus killing Medusa and fulfilling his adventurous duty. Heroes have to be able to want the adventure to