i can't argue that these are not great men, heros and models for us all. they are. but they are not mythological like odysseus. the difference is that great historical figures can inspire (and should) but do not possess the one ethereal quality that myths provide. that quality, as i perceive it, is that in myth the great personage has as it were merged back into the presence of the gods, and his life has become in its entirety an instruction in wisdom; both in/for this world but also the eternal. the mythical hero is thus de-personalized in a way, and comes to rest in the hearts of all men who can receive it. i hope that makes sense. truly, i am not quibbling with you, just expressing that i see it on another level, fwiw. hence, why i think that a mythical hero is a better image (ikon/icon) for the heart and spirit than a historical hero as great a he might be. these are useful in other ways, for education of children and/or emulation.
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