Joseph Smith Jr.

Essay # 2412

History > Greek and Roman
History > Leaders
Religion and Theology > Other

Joseph Smith Jr.

A look at Joseph Smith Jr, the noble saint, and how he fits into the Greek definition of a hero.

1,030 words () | 2 sources | 1999 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how Joseph Smith Jr., a noble saint during the 1800's, fits the definition of an Ancient Greek hero who was characterized as savior with great strength and an extraordinary destiny and quest.

From the Paper:

"One hears great stories of noble saints, yet when was the last time someone said that a saint was a great hero, let alone one who fit the Greek's definition of a hero? Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, embodies every aspect of the Greek heroic pattern: mainly his curious destiny, his marvelous quest, and the tragic fact that he did not receive any rewards. Joseph Smith Jr. was born December 23, 1803, in Sharon, Windsor County, Vermont. Even as a child, he had the strength of a hero. His mother once wrote: - . . . an epidemic of typhus fever passed over the land and all the Smith children were sorely afflicted? (Smith, 29). Joseph suffered from necrosis of the bone. A team of doctors suggested a new operation, (only removing infected areas of the bone,) instead of amputation. During that operation, Joseph refused to take any liquor or be tied to the bed. He desired his free will, and his family believed it was wrong to drink. This is an instance of his great strength, even in times of discomfort. Later in his life while boarding in the home of a Mr. Isaac Hale, Joseph met and fell in love with his daughter Emma. They were wed January 18, 1827, by Squire Tarbill, in South Bainbridge, New York."