Both heroes are examples of great warriors, forced through obstacles that utilize the philosophies of humanism and existentialism. Although not defined with the same ideologies, humanism and existentialism play off of each other. Humanism relies on humanity and the needs, desires, and individuality of a person. It is often seen as secular, rejecting supernatural forces and relying more on reasoning and human compassion. Existentialism is the rejection of a set fate, destiny, or as Beowulf would say- wryd. This philosophy encourages the individual to make his own decision in order to form his future as he wishes. One’s values or needs, and therefore Humanism, often comes into play when determining one’s future. Humanism and existentialism are used in Beowulf and Heracles to …show more content…
Euripides conveys human suffering through the actions of the gods. In the modern world, it would be said that this makes certain events in life inevitable because of the gods’ scheming minds. Hera’s endgame is Heracles’ misery, followed through by her minions Madness and Iris. When Heracles returns home to his family, he slays Lycu, the dictator, but Madness and Iris curse him“to destroy in one demented moment/ Three sons of [his] own begetting” (Heracles 184). As this is the ultimate