Heroes of Ancient Times and Modernity - Essay Example

Why is this feature relevant to the modern hero? No one can actually give an answer to this question. Maybe, in such a way the contemporaries are sure that in the modern very challenging world it is necessary to have an option to free one's mind. The director of the film underlines that external appearance is not important for the modern hero. It is much more important real heroism of a character. The physical power of Hancock can be lost in case he meets other superheroes. Achilles is an ancient Greek character. Nevertheless, this hero does not reveal features of a holistic mind or his open nature. Homer underlined his appearance: “he sat himself down away from the ships with a face as dark as night, and his silver bow rang death as he shot his arrow in the midst of them” (Iliad, Book I).

Actually, in the ancient world appearance played a very important role. Let us remember the ancient famous sculptures and monuments of ancient heroes and characters. Of course, Achilles worshipped gods and this was a positive feature of his nature. Achilles helps Greek people in their fight against enemies, but in reality, he is not much focused on solving military problems. From another perspective, Achilles can seem to be a consequential warrior.

Achilles can be a patriotic hero, but in this case, he should know for what purpose he needs to be such a person. He is sure of the fact that patriotism is positive if a personal concern is taken into account. Achilles impresses the audience with his daring and brash features. He shows more passion and he does not want to be vulnerable. This is another vision about heroism and patriotism unlike the view of patriotism in modern times. Achilles is too arrogant and superior, but Hancock is not. These are two different approaches to the representation of heroism and patriotism in two different worlds: in the world of ancient times and modern times. Achilles was not focused on the common good of society, but Hancock was very much pleased with his ability to help people. He did not place his own personality in the foreground; he made an emphasis on the background, which is society's welfare.