Great Works of Literature, Fall 2016 (hybrid)

Is Aeneas a hero? In what ways yes and no? Why might Virgil have chosen to depict him in this way? How might he compare with Odysseus?

I think that Aeneas is a hero because of his desire to build a new city. He is same as the character, Odysseus in Odysseys, who has so many turns in life. In The Aeneid, Juno plays the same role as Poseidon in Odysseys who creates troubles for main characters. Even though the way to build a new city is tough; Aeneas overcomes it and refuses the love from princess in order to pursuit his desire. I think Virgil has chosen to depict him in this way because he wants to show how solid is Aeneas’ desire. Comparing with Odysseus, they both all drifting in the beginning and refuse to stay with other lovers. Their desires are very solid and unbreakable, and these two stories all end up with main characters winning the battles and glories.

Author: YAOLE ZOU

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2 thoughts on “Is Aeneas a hero? In what ways yes and no? Why might Virgil have chosen to depict him in this way? How might he compare with Odysseus?”

  1. I agree with this statement. I think Aeneas is a hero. Poet Virgil also describes Aeneas as a Trojan hero. He is a warrior who will lead his people to safety. He found a new Trojan state, and establish order in his and his countryman’s lives. Aeneas and oddyssey both of them undergo a parallel journey to reach home.

  2. I agree with you. I think Aeneas is a hero. Even though he fled from Troy as his city was being destroyed, he was able to find somewhere new to continue the Trojan legacy. His resolve and his desire to rebuild his city exhibits that of a hero.

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