Heroic Myths: Perseus

Heroic Myths-Perseus

1. Where does the hero originate? What of his ancestry is significant? Consider in what way it is significant. The Hero Perseus is the son of the immortal Zeus and the mortal Danaë. Apart from having clear connections to his divine father Zeus, Perseus is also a descendant of Poseidon, Oceanus, and Tethys. In his lineage, Perseus can be linked to numerous kings and queens of diverse states. In particular, Perseus descended from Acrisius, king of Argos and brother of the King of Tiryns. Further generations include Abas, the founder of the Abantes, as well as connections to Cepheus and Cassipeä, the parents if his future wife, Andromeda. Other kings include Epaphus of Egypt, Minos of Crete, Phineus of Thrace, and

First, he is called to an adventure in which he is assigned to complete an impossible task. Then he is mentored by Athena, the goddess of wisdom, and assisted by the magical gifts given by the nymphs to overcome a monster. Using the advice and tools he has received on his journey, Perseus kills the monster with his wits by using the reflection of his shield instead of relying on brute force. On his road back home, Perseus commits a good deed by saving a damsel in distress by slaying another monster. Finally, Perseus arrives home and is arguably the only Greek hero with a happy ending.

7. How are the stories of this hero significant to Greek culture? Foremost, the myth reminds us that our fate cannot be avoided through the example of Acrisius' death. Nevertheless, Perseus creates the image of the perfect hero. Should an individual wish to fit this image, they must respect their parents and show bravery and determination in times of stress in order to overcome challenges.Information Sources

Powell, Barry B. “Chapter 14-Perseus and Myths of the Argive Plain.” Classical Myth, translated by Herbert M. Howe, 8th ed., Pearson, 2015, pp.