Throughout history, society has become accustomed with what they believe a hero should be but as each generation passes, this thought has shifted. Whether an immortal God with superhuman abilities or an average person who is giving everything they have to defend his or her people, heroes will rise when needed. The stories of Beowulf, Achilles, and Aeneas provide the reader with an example of what society of that time viewed a hero as and how they can compare with one another. Homer’s Iliad shows the reader whom ancient society believed a hero to be. It was written in a time when society relied on those strong enough and brave enough to rule the people. This was perfect for the character, Achilles, because in the Iliad he is described to be “godlike” (Iliad, 131) and “swift-footed” (Iliad, 121) suggesting he had superhuman traits such as strength and speed. These qualities worked to his benefit in battle and give him the “Hero” title he deserved. His story tells of his success on the battlefield and his defeat over Hector. Even though Achilles was seen as a hero to his people, he was not always emotionally sound. Achilles once gave up his wife, Breseis, to stop the god Apollo from sending a plague upon the Greek army. When the plague stopped, the battle roared on but Achilles did not participate. He was angered that his wife and prized possession was taken from him. It was not until his best friend, Patrocius, was killed that Achilles, out of complete fury, joined back in the battle to kill any Trojan standing in his way of revenge. His acts of solitude and revenge show where Achilles lack of devotion was to his people. He fought to protect them but his pride and reputation clouded his judgment in some situations. In Virgil’s Aeneid the reader is shown who classical society saw their hero to be. It follows the story of Aeneas who was an honorable leader to his people and a selfless hero for them to follow. His devotion to his people can be seen in how he unifies them together and gives them courage, “By this and by a simple speech Aeneas comforted his people: Friends and companions, have we not known hard hours before this? My men, who have endured still greater dangers, God will grant us an end to these as well” (Aenied, 259-263). Aeneas proves his commitment to his people when he continues with them on their journey and had to leave his lover, Dido, who kills herself after his departure. Aeneas as a hero shows how the views of society have already shifted. Aeaneas had blood of the gods pulsing through his veins because he was the son of the goddess, Venus so he was still seen as superior in that way. He also had the security of the gods promise that he would have a glorious future in Italy. His compassion and devotion to the gods and his people, however, are what make him stand out as a hero. Unlike Achilles, Aeneas considers everyone before himself and does not let his emotions keep him from battle. The focus in society is slowly shifting from superhuman qualities/acts to a more selfless and honorable character. Society in medieval times shows their views of a hero through the story of Beowulf. He is human and has no superhuman powers or relations to any Gods. He is a brave, loyal, selfless, and wise. He, like Aeneas, leads, and protects his people at all times. He devotes his life to defending others and securing his glory. Through the battles fought with Grendel and Grendel’s mother and the many men who lost their lives, Beowulf does not let his emotions take control as Achilles and Aeneas did in their stories. Because of his defense for the community, Beowulf is made king later in his life. His commitment to his people is ultimately shown when he slays the dragon that was terrorizing the Geats but dies after battle. Overall, Beowulf’s bravery in every situation is what makes him the hero. He had no super power or promise of being successful but he used his bravery to persevere and overcome obstacles.
Beowulf viewed as a hero by society of this time shows that they are shifting to a view more relatable to the average person than before. A hero no longer has to be related to a god or possess special powers; anybody brave enough can be the hero. Not only is bravery a heroic quality but also devotion and honor. Beowulf died fighting to protect his people and society respects that in a person. It is possible that these characteristics in such high view lead people to become eventually what we know as police officers, or “protectors of the community,” later in life.
Society today has some similarities with society’s views in the past of who they believe a hero is. Although society today still believes that a hero is brave, devoted, strong, and powerful, they also have other traits that give a hero their label. Law enforcement, fire fighters, and those in the army are all seen as heroes sacrificing themselves for the people of this country. There are also heroes today that might not be physically strong but they fight for the good of the people. When someone can lead and move people in a positive way, even if all they are doing is using their voice, they are a hero and someone to look up to. No matter when in time, society praises the hero that defends them, does what is right, and devotes themselves to the people.
As each generation adapts and views change, so does society’s definition of who a hero is. In some ways the definition is getting refined while in other ways it is growing and reaching more than one type of person. From a select few of superhuman gods to an over flowing devoted and caring population, heroes have always had a place in the past, present, and future. As society believes today, everyone has the making of a hero within him or her, we just need to find our strength.