Internal Motivations:
* Kleos (Glory): The most prominent motivation is the desire for fame and recognition. Heroes strive to leave a lasting mark on history and earn the admiration of their peers and future generations. This is evident in Achilles' constant yearning for kleos, even at the expense of his own life.
* Arete (Virtue): Heroes are bound by a strict code of honor and excellence. They strive to be the best warriors, leaders, and individuals possible, driven by a deep sense of duty and responsibility. This fuels Odysseus' unwavering determination to return home, despite facing countless challenges.
* Menis (Wrath): The righteous anger of heroes is another powerful motivator. It can be fueled by personal grievances, injustice, or the violation of one's honor. Achilles' rage at Agamemnon's disrespect is a prime example.
* Philoxenia (Hospitality): A strong sense of hospitality is valued in Greek society. Heroes often offer shelter and aid to travelers, driven by a belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the need for mutual respect.
* Personal Relationships: Love, loyalty, and family ties play a significant role in motivating heroes. Achilles' love for Patroclus and Odysseus' yearning to reunite with his family are examples of this.
External Motivations:
* Divine Intervention: The gods actively interfere in the lives of heroes, often influencing their actions and shaping the course of events. This can be either benevolent, as in Athena's guidance of Odysseus, or malicious, as in the wrath of Zeus against the Trojans.
* Fate (Moira): Heroes are often subject to a preordained fate, their lives seemingly guided by a higher power. The acceptance of their destiny, even if tragic, is a key element in their heroic journey.
* Social Obligations: Heroes are bound by their social roles and responsibilities, often acting in service to their communities or kingdoms. This is exemplified by Agamemnon's duty to lead the Greeks to victory in the Trojan War.
Traits of Greek Epic Heroes:
* Courage and Bravery: Heroes are fearless in the face of danger and are willing to risk their lives for what they believe in.
* Strength and Skill: They are physically powerful and possess exceptional fighting skills, often surpassing ordinary men.
* Intelligence and Cunning: Heroes are often resourceful and clever, able to outwit their opponents and overcome challenges.
* Honor and Integrity: They adhere to a strict code of ethics, valuing honesty, loyalty, and fairness.
* Ambition and Drive: Heroes possess an unwavering determination to achieve their goals, often striving for personal glory or the betterment of their people.
* Humanity and Vulnerability: Despite their superhuman feats, heroes are ultimately flawed individuals, grappling with human emotions like grief, fear, and anger.
In summary, Greek epic heroes are driven by a complex interplay of internal and external motivations. They embody a set of heroic traits that are celebrated in ancient Greek culture, showcasing courage, strength, honor, and a deep connection to their communities and the divine. Their actions are shaped by their desire for glory, their sense of duty, and the forces of fate that guide their lives.