Vom Waldheros zum Sonnenheros. Die Entwicklung der Erzählungen von Samson und Herakles

Abstract

Samson from the Book of Judges has been compared to Heracles on many occasions. The following paper suggests a new point of view for the subject: while Samson’s solar aspect seems almost undeniable, Heracles’ connection to the deified sun needs reconsideration. Originally, he might have rather been some kind of a sylvan hero. Especially Homer’s description of the mighty demigod points towards this conclusion, but also his dodekathlos provide some evidence. The author explores this hypothesis and proposes a chronology for the evolution of the myth.