TY  - JOUR
A1  - Siegel, Janice
ED  - Potter, Amanda
ED  - Gardner, Hunter H.
T1  - Guillermo del Toro’s Hellboy: A Kinder, Gentler, More Modern Heracles
JF  - thersites 17
N2  - In Hellboy (2004, Sony Pictures), Guillermo del Toro presents a mythic hero (half human/half demon) seemingly made from the same mold as the classical hero Heracles (Hercules). Hellboy’s modern world is shaped by a cosmology not unlike that of Greek mythology, and as is true for Heracles, his unique pedigree and superior physicality empower him to mediate between the forces of supernaturality and humanity. Hellboy’s experiences evoke comparison with most characters and exploits in the Heraclean mythological corpus; his good character precludes comparison with others. Hellboy must contend with his own versions of Hera, Eurystheus, and a Nemean Lion/Hydra-like monster. He, too, relies on his own superhuman strength, innate cunning and an Athena-like protector to be successful at his job. Both heroes navigate a difficult path to their very different destinies. But in the end, Hellboy’s compassion, humility, unerring moral compass, and genuinely altruistic motivations make him both a better man and a better mythic hero, one worthy even of being loved.
KW  - Hellboy
KW  - Heracles/Herakles/Hercules
KW  - Classical Reception
KW  - Reception of Mythology
KW  - Mythic Hero
Y1  - 2023
U6  - https://doi.org/10.34679/thersites.vol17.253
SN  - 2364-7612
VL  - 2023
IS  - 17
SP  - 143
EP  - 182
ER  -