Hero myths are the best-known mythological stories, involving bigger-than-life characters that are easily recognizable. In ancient Greece, characters such as Homer's Odysseus, Apollo, and Achilles were viewed as heroes, much like today's comic book "super heroes."" Super heroes and their plotlines involve characters who put themselves in harm's way to protect something (a city, a building, a bus full of school children) or a particular person (Lois Lane, Gwen Stacey, etc.). Whether it's ancient Greek mythology, 20th century comic book characters, the themes and morality issues are very similar...

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• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... quality is that of being a "common person" or "regular guy." These qualities explain why the concept of cultural heroes survives the centuries. Proving that history repeats itself, some of today's superheroes pull tendencies from the legendary heroes of mythology. As an example, consider Superman. He is tall and handsome. He is smart. He can also fly, is practically invincible, and is ... ...

• Word Count: 1839
• Approx Pages: 7
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School