I don't think it's a stretch to say Odysseus is the most influential character in the western world, even to people who never read Homer. He is the archetype of the western hero since literature has existed.
Depending on your view of the bible, Abraham, Moses and Joseph might qualify: even if historical, it is their literary character which has inspired thousands of years of imitators.
Personally, Hercule Poroit and Holmes have both been wonderful examples of different approaches to problem solving. I suppose that Beowulf would have to rate somehow as an inspiration of courage and a get it done attitude.
A lot of characters I have enjoyed haven't really influenced me to change my life - I don't generally think "What would Bilbo Baggins do?" when encountering a problem. An interesting excercise.
4 comments:
I don't think it's a stretch to say Odysseus is the most influential character in the western world, even to people who never read Homer. He is the archetype of the western hero since literature has existed.
Depending on your view of the bible, Abraham, Moses and Joseph might qualify: even if historical, it is their literary character which has inspired thousands of years of imitators.
Personally, Hercule Poroit and Holmes have both been wonderful examples of different approaches to problem solving. I suppose that Beowulf would have to rate somehow as an inspiration of courage and a get it done attitude.
A lot of characters I have enjoyed haven't really influenced me to change my life - I don't generally think "What would Bilbo Baggins do?" when encountering a problem. An interesting excercise.
No doubt about this one: Atticus Finch.
Robinson Crusoe
Sherlock Holmes and Keith Robertson's Henry Reed.
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