Tragic Hero In Things Fall Apart

What is a hero? A hero is someone who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. In two novels, one called The Odyssey and the other called Things Fall Apart takes place in opposing cultures. The Odyssey takes place in the world of Greek Mythology. It is told through the story of Odysseus, a soldier who fought in the Trojan war. He finds himself stranded alone on the Island of Calypso. His only fuel to keep him going is his wife, Penelope, who is thousands of miles away fighting of suitors for her hand in marriage. In Things Fall Apart, Okonkwo, a well known tribesman, is faced with many challenges throughout his life. From difficulties with yam harvests, to having to execute a boy who he looked as as his son. In the end, both these men are considered heroes in their culture. But, Odysseus displays the traits of a Willing hero better than Okonkwo displays a Tragic hero.

The description of a Willing hero is, committed to the adventure, has no doubts, bravely advances throughout the story and is self-motivated. Instead of being committed to being to the adventure, Odysseus is trying to get back home (Homer 1-17). Other than that one flaw, Odysseus is a perfect match. Okonkwo on the other hand, is a tragic hero. These heros display flaws, never overcome their inner demons, are usually brought down by their inner demons, are charming, and their initial flaw wins in the end. Okonkwo does not overcome his inner demons, can bounce back from tragedy, and he is more brutal than charming. Just this reason proves that Odysseus displays his type of hero better than Okonkwo