Literature, Myth vs. Legend

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We all know two of the world’s best known heroes of old, Hercules and Arthur.  Myths are derived from Legends that are formed from stories passed down through the generations.  Hercules from Greek Mythology was one of the greatest heroes ever known.  His godlike stength, willingness to help others, and an overall good samaritan as it were.  But the truth is, Hercules (Heracles) was actually a barbarian of sorts.  He was slow and had a temper to be feared.  This also accounted for his tremendous strength, the story has it that he brutally murdered his whole family because he was drunk and got angered.

Now Arthur on the other has was a legend in his own right.  Legend has it that he pulled the sword from the stone and was given the kingdom that once belonged to his father, Uther Pendragon.  Legend also tells of the stories of a wizard who lived his life forward, then at the peak of his life, lived it aging in reverse.  Arthur was revered for his accomplishments, but was betrayed by his best knight, and best friend, who had laid down with his wife.  He then cast them out of his kingdom forever.  Arthur was known to be fierce on the battle field with his most special weapon, excaliber.  This sword was indestructible, a gift from the Lady of the Lake, and Arthur never lost a fight with his sword.  When Arthur laid there dying from wounds inflicted on him during his final battle after forsaking the sword, his friend had and knight whom had laid with his wife had dealt the fatal blow.  Arthur threw the sword back into the lake to be recieved by the Lady of the Lake and to never be returned to the land again.  Arthur now rests at Avalon, where all legends of old are laid to rest once the perish.

No one knows if Avalon really exists, some say they have seen it, but many never return from their quests for it.  In true essence, Avalon is a place of Myth and Legend, we need heroes to believe in to make it through the day.  To me, Avalon really does exist, in our hearts and minds.  What is your belief, where is your hero today?