How and why is Rey and Penelope a hero?

Question

How and why is Rey (from star wars; The Force Awakens) as the main character celebrated like a hero? What is the value in celebrating her. Please connect her to how Penelope (From The Odyssey) is a hero. 

Answer 1

As a Star Wars fan and having a Classics focused English major as a BA, I feel obligated to tackle this question...

Rey from Star Wars and Penelope from the Odyssey can be considered heroines in their respective narratives, although they come from different genres and contexts.

Rey from Star Wars:

1. Background and Context:
2. Rey is a central character in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, starting with "The Force Awakens." She begins as a scavenger on the desert planet Jakku.
3. Her hero's journey involves discovering her Force sensitivity and grappling with her identity and lineage.
4. Character Development:
5. Rey undergoes significant character development throughout the trilogy. She evolves from a scavenger to a powerful Jedi, symbolizing the potential for anyone to rise to greatness regardless of their background.
6. Independence and Self-Discovery:
7. Rey's heroism is characterized by her independence and self-discovery. She learns to harness the Force and confronts her fears and doubts.
8. She actively chooses the path of heroism, embracing her role in the battle between the Resistance and the First Order.
9. Acts of Heroism:
10. Rey engages in lightsaber battles, confronts powerful foes like Kylo Ren, Supreme Leader Snoke, Emperor Palpatine, and ultimately plays a crucial role in defeating the tyrannical forces threatening the galaxy.

Penelope from the Odyssey:

1. Background and Context:
2. Penelope is a character in Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey." She is the wife of Odysseus, the hero, and she faces the challenges of maintaining her household during his long absence.
3. Character Development:
4. Penelope's character is defined by her loyalty, cunning, and resilience. She remains faithful to Odysseus despite the challenges she faces during his absence.
5. Independence and Resilience:
6. Penelope showcases independence and resilience in managing her household and dealing with the suitors vying for her hand in Odysseus's absence.
7. Her clever tactics, such as delaying her remarriage through weaving and unweaving a burial shroud, demonstrate her intelligence and determination.
8. Acts of Heroism:
9. Penelope's heroism lies in her ability to endure hardship, maintain her integrity, and reunite with Odysseus. While she may not engage in physical battles, her emotional and mental strength are heroic in their own right.

Comparison:

1. Both Rey and Penelope exhibit heroism through their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
2. They undergo significant personal development and face challenges that test their character.
3. Rey's heroism is more overtly physical, involving lightsaber battles and active participation in the Resistance's fight against evil.
4. Penelope's heroism is more subtle and domestic but equally significant, involving the preservation of her family and fidelity to Odysseus.

Contrast:

1. Rey's heroism is set in a science fiction universe with elements of fantasy, involving the Force and space battles.
2. Penelope's heroism is grounded in the mythology of ancient Greece, with a focus on human virtues, cunning, and familial loyalty.
3. Rey's journey is about self-discovery and embracing her destiny as a powerful Force user.
4. Penelope's journey is about maintaining her fidelity, managing her household, and ultimately reuniting with Odysseus.

In summary, while Rey and Penelope come from different genres and face different challenges, they both embody heroic qualities through their resilience, determination, and the choices they make in the context of their respective stories.