Legend: The Labours of Heracles
SeriesName
What’s inside...
In this graphic novel, Heracles, a great soldier with a beautiful home and loving family, becomes the target of jealousy and is hypnotized into committing a terrible crime. Devastated by his actions, he wanders in depression until he finds solace in completing ten impossible tasks created by his nemesis, Eurystheus. Determined to atone for his sins, Heracles battles a giant lion, fights monstrous birds, and tricks someone into carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, all while never giving up or backing down.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-18
Length
88 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Heracles
King Eurystheus
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Heracles to complete his twelve labors, and what does that teach us about facing our challenges?
How did Heracles feel after completing each labor? Can you relate these emotions to any experiences you have had?
Which of Heracles' labors do you find the most interesting or challenging, and why?
Heracles faced many decisions during his labors. Can you think of a time you had to make a tough choice? What did you learn from it?
How does the story of Heracles inspire us to deal with our personal struggles?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Heracles’ character and choices. Listen actively and validate their feelings.
Connect the themes of the book to your child's everyday life. For example, discuss how persistence and courage helped Heracles and how they can apply these traits in their own life.
Use the narrative as a way to explore right and wrong. Ask your child what they think about Heracles' actions and what they might have done differently.
After reading, create a fun activity where your child can illustrate or act out their favorite labor of Heracles. This helps in reinforcing the story and making it memorable.
Discuss the mythical elements of the story. This can be an excellent way to introduce your child to different cultural myths and their meanings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Hard Work
Explanation: Through the twelve labors, Heracles shows relentless perseverance and hard work to achieve his goals, despite numerous challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties and striving to accomplish tasks, be it in their studies, sports, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Heracles approaches each labor with a strategic mindset, demonstrating creative problem-solving abilities to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and find solutions to problems they encounter in school or while interacting with others.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: Heracles undertakes these labors as atonement, teaching the value of taking responsibility for one’s actions and their consequences.
Real-World Application: Kids learn about accountability and the significance of making amends for mistakes, fostering a sense of responsibility towards their actions.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Fear
Explanation: Facing fearsome creatures and daunting tasks, Heracles exemplifies bravery.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to confront their fears and challenges, enhancing their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: The Value of Help and Cooperation
Explanation: In some labors, Heracles accepts help from friends or gods, underscoring the importance of seeking and valuing assistance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of teamwork and cooperation in achieving common goals, be it in collaborative projects or group sports.