Theme of Courage in Perseus and Medusa

Like pretty much every great hero, Perseus is incredibly brave. No matter how dangerous the monsters in his path, Perseus boldly marches forward. He is unstoppable – Gorgons, sea monsters, wicked kings – nothing can intimidate our noble hero. Perseus is part of a long line of legendary heroes that extends all the way to today. All of Hollywood's superheroes and action heroes owe a little something to Perseus. It seems like human beings just never get tired of hearing stories about brave heroes courageously facing down impossible odds.

1. Who is the most courageous person you know? Why do you think of them that way?
2. What does it mean to be brave? Why do you think so?
3. Just to play devil's advocate, is it really that brave of Perseus to chop off Medusa's head while she's asleep? Why, or why not? In most movie versions of this scene, Medusa is awake and fighting. Why do you think that is?
4. Is Perseus brave to accept Polydectes' task, or is he just plain stupid? Is it possible for him to be both?