- "Joe was a fair man, with curls of flaxen, hair on each side of his smooth face ... He was mild, good-natured, sweet-tempered, easy-going, foolish, dear fellow -- a sort of Hercules in strength, and also in weakness." (p. 6)
In Greek mythology, Hercules was a divine hero, known especially for his strength, courage, and determination. Ultimately, Hercules was forced to complete Twelve Labors because he killed his wife and children. Aside from committing this violent act, Hercules' weaknesses also included being lustful and gluttonous. Dickens alludes to Hercules to describe Joe's character. Joe possesses strengths such as patience, unconditional love, and faithfulness. However, here Pip indicates Joe's weaknesses being that he is defenseless and vulnerable when it comes to dealing with his wife, Pip's cruel sister.
Work Cited:
"Fast Facts on Hercules."
About.com. Web. 3 Jan. 2010. http://gogreece.about.com/cs/mythology/a/mythhercules.htm.
Photo Credit:
Photograph.
WIkipedia. Web. 3 Jan. 2010. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:0064MC.jpg.
Video Credit:
"The Twelve Labors of Hercules." Youtube. Web. 3 Jan. 2010. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGMG-t3t98s
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