More than a Cape
When imagining a hero one may think of the stereotypical superman, batman, or occasional underdog. The vision of a hero can be exceptionally diverse in varying countries, cultures, and individuals. If you break down the definition of a hero the words courageous, gallant, and godlike are most likely predictable. But in Joel Skidmore’s, The Odyssey, Odysseus proves there are more qualities far greater than bravery needed to be a true hero.
When reading Chinua Achebe’s, Things Fall Apart, it is proven vastly Okonkwo does not contain love, respect, or patience for anyone. He makes himself incapable to show emotion due to the fear of weakness. Odysseus in comparison, loves wholeheartedly and without the fear of judgement. In fact …show more content…
Throughout all the trials and the rigorous voyage home, Odysseus's faith remained strong. He trusted his gods without question or a wandering mind. In his heart he knew they would eventually get him home. While Okonkwo on the other hand, often doubted the way his gods perceived him. One day he went as far as to disobey them during a scared week. In the story it reads “...Okonkwo broke the peace, and was punished, as was the custom, by Ezeani, the priest of the earth goddess” (Achebe 29). Instead of honoring his gods and ancestors during the Week of Peace, Okonkwo beat his wife therefore tarnishing his reputation as a clan warrior. This added to Okonkwo's many insecurities he held captive behind his act of …show more content…
It is also far more than just the way one portrays it to peers. It is a personal characteristic that is significantly shown under tough circumstances. Okonkwo may be known well and have fame but in the book he is described like this, “He had a slight stammer and whenever he was angry and could not get his words out quickly enough, he would use his fists” (Achebe 4). In contrast, Odysseus is well determined to get home and is not deterred although it could be grueling at times. Also looking back at how Okonkwo murdered Telemachus, the reason as to why he did it without remorse is more intricate than just obeying the Oracle. He felt he needed to prove himself to everyone around him. Lastly, diving deeper into the ends of each story, Odysseus is reunited with his love and has a peaceful ending full of happiness. Unfortunately,for Okonkwo the ending is not so delighting. The man who did not want to appear weak, took the most cowardly exit of