“A man cannot become a hero until he can see the root of his own downfall”

— Aristotle

Greek mythology is steeped in heroism. There are many books, and poems written on the subject. Perhaps most famous are Homers Iliad, and Odyssey, which talk about countless heroes- Achilles, Hector, Odysseus, among many others. Jason and the argonauts, the demi-god Hercules of course. What were the Greeks obsession with Heroes? And has the age of heroes vanished? Was it just a product of the ages, and culture of the greeks? Do modern day heroes still exist?

Much like the Olympics, the stories of the Greek heroes, are deeply intertwined with religion. However, most of the heroes are myths, unlike in the case of the Greek Olympics, which we have evidence were actually held, and more than just myths with many mentions of gods, as well as other creatures and monsters. Hercules was said to be the son of Zeus himself. Odysseus faced sirens, and a cyclops on his travels. Despite their mythological status, tales of the Greek heroes are still told, and many modern-day phrases and sayings have derived from these stories – ‘pandoras box’ and ‘Achilles heel’ for example. 

A dictionary definition of a hero is “a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities.”

Although the age of the traditional hero has gone, there are still many modern-day stories told of heroic acts during battle. The men of Rourke’s drift are often hailed as British heroes, and the queen presents medals for military valour to this day. Could some of the acts of bravery during recent wartimes, earning the Victoria’s Cross, be compared to the feats of Hercules and Achilles? One Historical British hero that springs to my mind, would be Winston Churchill. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Nazi’s during the second world war. With these points in mind, I would argue that heroes still very much exist. 

One may also point towards modern day sports stars as heroes. Growing up, both David Beckham, and Jonny Wilkinson were heroes of mine. Supporting Chelsea FC, and being a midfielder myself, Frank Lampard was also one of my heroes. Could sporting greatness be comparable to battle, and the Greek Myths? There is evidence to suggest, that in fact it could be. As well as the traditional Greek Heroes, there were many great Greek athletes, who were seen as heroes. Theagenes of Thasos was said to have won over one thousand bouts of boxing and pankration (wresting). A statue was even built in his honour. Leonidas of Rhodes was also said to be a great runner and achieved 12 Olympic Victories. These may have been similar equivalents to modern day football players. 

Other modern-day heroes may be Nelson Mandela, or Martin Luther King. They were undoubtedly great men, who inspired millions of people, not through sporting or military acts, but through other qualities they possessed. Similarly, not every Greek Hero was a great athlete, or warrior. Odysseus for example, was famed not for his military prowess, or physical strength, but more for his intelligence, and guile. 

We must also not forget females’ heroes, or heroines. The Greeks Myths had many Heroines. Atalanta, Penelope, Helen of Troy, and many Goddess’s as well- Hera, Athena, who were integral parts of many stories such as Homers Iliad. Joan of Arc could be a more modern female Hero. In the sporting world, Serena Williams and Jessica Ennis spring to my mind. A slightly more controversial choice, but some would consider Britain’s first female prime minister Margaret Thatcher as a heroine of sorts. She was certainly a strong woman. 

There is also the dark side to heroes. Achilles committed many great acts, however actions such as dragging the slain Hectors body behind his chariot, outside the gates of Troy, were nothing to be proud of. Hercules was made to perform his twelve labours, to make up for slaying his wife and children in a rage, induced by the Goddess Hera. Many would argue that modern day heroes also have their individual flaws. One could even go further, and discuss characters such as evil dictators, whom many would have still considered as their hero. Many Russians viewed Stalin as a Hero. Many people would have also viewed Osama Bin Laden as a hero. This is a more controversial take on what a hero is, but this suggests there is a great deal of subjectiveness in peoples view on their personal heroes. On a lighter note, Frank Lampard was my hero- however I’m sure many Manchester United, or Arsenal fans weren’t so keen on him!

This suggests that a hero may come in many different forms and may show many different qualities. Leadership, bravery, physical strength, intelligence, wisdom, valor, integrity, empathy to name but a few characteristics that may describe your hero. To me, a hero is someone who you can draw inspiration from. In the recent Netflix series ‘The Last Dance’ it may inspire many, that Michael Jordan was initially cut from his high school basketball team. Others may be inspired by heroes who they are able to draw parallels with. Perhaps a great academic may look up to Einstein or Newton, and a budding musician may draw inspiration from Beethoven and Bach. Certainly, I used to try to emulate Frank Lampard’s work ethic while I was playing football.

I believe heroes are individual for us all, however they can be a source of inspiration, and hope for many of us. Today, just as in the ancient times, heroes are very much alive, and an important part of society.