Differences And Similarities Between Sir Gawain And The Iliad

The Comparison and Contrast of Medieval Heroes Many themes are consistent throughout the ancient and the classical periods to the medieval. One of these themes is the nature of the hero. These heroes typically show courage and loyalty to their people in dangerous battles which they may die to keep the heroic code. Examples of this would be the hero of Gawain to the heroes in Virgil’s Aeneid and Homer’s Iliad. Amongst these three works are many similarities and differences within the nature of the hero theme. In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Gawain shows the nature of a hero. This character has a reputation of being a great knight as he is regarded as pure, brave, and courteous. Gawain must travel into the unknown, confront his faults, and overcome them. He first shows heroism when he overcomes his own fear. This occurs in the opening scene of the poem when he must put himself in danger for the honor of the court, for the safety of his country, and for his own honor. Once he gets to the Green Knight he faces the decision of turning back as a coward or facing his fear. Once again he dives deep into danger.

He is a warrior who will keep his people safe by devoting himself to his family, country, and mission. He sets goals and has a strong mindset to accomplish them. Aeneas experiences many hardships but does not appear to lose faith. He is a leader for his people and provides for them making sure all of their needs are met. He chooses to battle Turnus to expand the city for the better of his people. “His ability to accept his destined path despite his unhappiness in doing so makes him a graceful hero and a worth recipient of the honor and favor the gods bestow upon him” (SPARK