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Monomyth Greek Mythology

Introduction

A Monomyth or the hero’s journey as explained by Joseph Campell is a pattern that represents various stages of a hero’s life journey. Different myths from various times and regions share fundamental structures and stages. Monomyth has five stages namely: call for adventure; the conflict; the journey; helpers and guides and transformation. The following is a narrative of Greek mythology hero and his relationship to the monomyth patterns.

The Greek monomyth model has a real life relationship between the ancient and modern literature.

The Greek Mothology hero

One of the most prominent Greek heroes was Heracles. He was famous for the twelve labors he performed for Eurytheus, the King of Tiryns.

“The mind knows only what lies near the heart.” (Hamilton and Christopher 77)

Heracles fulfilled the five stages of monomyth in the followimg ways:

Call for adventure: Heracles was sent to murder his own children as the only way to clear him from his crimes. In addition, he was to perform ten tasks for Eurystheus.

The conflict: Heracles was confused because the King wanted him to kill his only three children. In addition, he was given ten tasks to prove himself a hero but the king refused to credit him with two tasks claiming he was helped.

The Journey: Heracles encountered many challenges that made him a brave man. He was told to kill the most dangerous animals and creatures such as the lion, the hydra, and boar. In addition, he was exposed to many dangerous tasks that involved walking through thick forests and capturing deadly animals.

“The power of good is shown not by triumphantly conquering evil, but by continuing to resist evil while facing certain defeat.” (Hamilton and Christopher 81). 

Helpers and guides: Throughout his challenges, Heracles met good Samaritans who assisted him in some tasks. His nephew Iolaus to kill the hydra accompanied him.

The treasure: the king set Heracles free after accomplishing all the ten tasks. In addition, Hera withdrew her murder case.

Transformation: Heracles returned home and spent the rest of his time trying to accomplish other heroic tasks and adventures including killing anything dangerous he finds on his way.

Character from book

Heracles mythical story relates to Star Wars who was given a hard task but emerged a conqueror.

Conclusion

The study of monomyth assists in relating the current events with the traditional heroes who placed great roles in shaping lives of others. Heracles was one of the Greek heroes who showed courage and love for his people by sacrificing his life to perform various tasks.

Work cited

Hamilton, Edith, and Christopher Wormell. Mythology. , 2013. Print.