Superman had exceptional powers to fight for justice and save lives; Odysseus, a mortal human, had as much power as everyone else. But, which one was the better hero for the people? Both Odysseus and Superman achieved their heroic traits differently. Odysseus shows common people a hero to whom they can relate. He was more realistic; he had misfortune and only won what he had lost. Modern heroes such as Superman have special traits that make them unique; because of their supernatural powers, they can do amazing tasks impossible for humans. The character traits of Odysseus or Superman affected the outlook people had with respect to heroes.

The Greek culture described Odysseus as sensitive, brave, athletic and aesthetic (Skidmore 2004). Every great hero must display these characteristics to be a legend like Odysseus. He was a different hero compared with modern heroes such as Superman or Batman; he displayed...