"The [medieval] hero represents a kind of hypermasculinity, and exaggerated and perhaps idealized version of maleness that is promulgated with a social intention: ordinary men are to measure themselves against the impossible standard that the hero embodies, and from this conditioned inadequacy strive to fight harder and control themselves better" (UM 1995) through the preset "idealized version", yet without conscious intent aimed at personal change of character. ... The heroic tradition known to us as our common heritage "represent the heroic action as physical; the higher religions show the...

• Word Count: 2885
• Approx Pages: 12
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate