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Greek Mythology: Comparing Heroes And Gods

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Recommended: The similarity between gods

Kenny Duong
Mythology
Comparison Essay
10-31-17 (11-14-17 revised)

In Mythology, tradition and divine heroes and god and goddess have a lot in common. For one, these heroes are usually descendants of gods, so these heroes inherit godly traits naturally. Heroes and gods are praised for their good deeds, whether people tell stories of them, or form rituals or feasts for them. While heroes and gods’ stories have explained the people’s role on Earth and why the Earth is the way it is, the characteristics of these heroes and gods that define each stories can be different. Heroes, although they generally gain traits similar to gods, act differently. These heroes are typically modest and humble with their powers, and they also faithfully submit …show more content…

The gods and goddess act selfishly and only for their benefit. The gods act cruelly and abuse the powers if they are not satisfied or happy with the people. For example, Athena turns Arachne, a talented weaver, into a spider after Athena was offended by Arachne’s remarks and jokes. Mercury and Jupiter drowns a whole county after they were not welcomed by the people. Artemis and Apollo murders the 14 children of Niobe after Niobe boasted at the gods for the large amount of children she had. The gods can also act graciously for deeds done for them as well. Perseus had the task of killing Medusa, and had asked for Athena’s and Hermes’ assistance. Perseus was granted winged shoes, a helmet, and a sword and shield from Athena and Hermes that would help him defeat Medusa. The gods and heroes also some similarity as well. The gods and heroes have used their unique powers to save people. In Norse mythology, Odin guides Sigurd, the great nephew of Odin, to protect Sigurd and kill a dragon. In Indian mythology, Ramayana turns into human form to eradicate the demon god from the Earth named Ravana. Heroes like Beowulf are comparable to the gods in terms of saving people too. Beowulf saved the people of the Danes from the terror of Grendel and his mother. He used his power and strength to do a good favor and for

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