My essay will analyse the heroes in the following four texts, The Epic of Gilgamesh[68], The Odyssey[69], Mulan[70] and Where the Wild Things Are[71]. These texts were chosen as they differ significantly in context, culture and form. This investigation re

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Weakened But Not Dead

The Waning Power of the

Mythological Hero

Student Number: 18565188

Centre Number: 103

English Extension Two Major Work:

Critical Response 2008

Word Count: 4476

We live a storied existence and the mythological hero entrenched in myths are vital to humanity for the reproduction of values and the evolution of civilisation. They inspire each subsequent generation and embody our ideals. Mythological heroes serve as idealised constructions expressing "a deep psychological aspect of human existence"1, reflecting and shaping cultures by embracing ethnocentrism and the dominant culture. However, the established heroes of the past such as Gilgamesh2 and Odysseus3 are no longer prevalent in the stories we tell ourselves today.

Instead, what we do have are attenuated heroes who manifest heroic tendencies that reflect our own fragmented and hero-less society. Unlike the mythological heroes who undertook long and arduous journeys of self sacrifice and valour, the heroes in modern stories lack the internal fortitude, determination and patience required to undertake such quests. Their weakened status can be associated to the literary form they embody. On the one hand, myths encompass universal truths that are the foundation for human experiences