Prometheus could also be called a Promethean hero, "a villain-hero who has done good but only by performing an overreaching or rebellious act." (Brugger par 9). His qualities are all in similarity to the qualities of the typical Byronic hero, which is obvious since this character was created by Lord Byron himself. Prometheus suffered for the good of mankind and took the harsh punishment by Zeus with honor.
The treatment that Prometheus was given is what the typical Byronic hero is expected to face. He was condemned to suffer, experienced the wrath of social order and was treated like an outsider. Although this treatment was harsh he took it in pride, "Triumphant where it dares defy, And making Death a Victory." (Byron l58) and not once did he ever regret what he did. He chose himself that he wanted to take the punishment for the betterment of man and suffers for this love physically. This shows his deep love for man and his ability to live the life of a Byronic or Promethean hero in pride.
Another example of a Byronic hero in literature is Mr. Rochester in the novel Jane Eyre. Mr. Rochester is more towards the passionate and loving Byronic hero. He often lets himself get taken over by any love even if it's immoral. He acts on impulse and is guided by his senses and not his mind. Above all else he shows his extremely passionate side towards Jane. Mr. Rochester is mysterious throughout the novel, "A week passed, and no news arrived of Mr. Rochester: ten days; and still he did not come. Mrs. Fairfax said she should not be surprised if he were to go straight from the Leas to London, and thence to the Continent, and not show his face again Thornfield for a year to come: he had not infrequently quitted it in a manner quite abrupt and unexpected." (Bronte 192) often times he leaves Jane confused on whether he truly likes her or not and this represents the immoral side where he is often guided by his senses.
