Different types of mythology heroes are often based on a number of common traits and attributes, and have largely become archetypes for modern stories about heroes. Many heroes that can be found in various myths are immortal or partially immortal due to some divine origin or parentage. There are also a number of mythological heroes that are not immortal. These mortal heroes are often powerful or wise kings, though there are a number of stories in which the hero is aided by others in some way. Many mythology heroes have some type of flaw or tragic failing that simultaneously enhances their heroism and leads to their downfall.
Mythology heroes are characters that appear in a wide range of mythological systems, who act in ways that are worthy of note or respect. These characters often overcome some type of evil or perform legendary acts that make them seem beyond the scope of human behavior. Many of these mythology heroes are gods or other immortal beings, usually the partially human offspring of gods or goddesses. While immortality in and of itself makes these characters remarkable, their actions usually enhance this status and can include the slaying of mythological beasts, rescuing or aiding mortals in some way, and defying tyrants.
There are many mythology heroes, however, that are neither immortal nor have divine parentage. These mortal heroes are often stronger, smarter, or otherwise superior to “normal” people and demonstrate this superiority through heroic acts that are beneficial to others. Such heroes are often seen in Norse mythology, in which kings and warriors are responsible for slaying terrible beasts and fighting in legendary wars and conflicts. These mythology heroes are often aided by others, either as a group of adventurers, such as Jason and the Argonauts of Greek mythology, or through possession of legendary artifacts like an enchanted sword.
Many mythology heroes suffer some type of flaw, often referred to as a tragic flaw, which allows these heroes to remain more “human.” Even immortal and supernatural heroes can have this type of flaw, which may ultimately be their undoing or at least provides conflict which they must overcome. Hubris, or an excessive amount of pride, is one of the most common tragic flaws for heroes, especially in Greek and Roman myths. This flaw often results in mythology heroes who help others and slay monsters, only to believe they are unstoppable and meet their end in a way that makes them more remarkable and serves to remind people that no one is invincible.
