In
world mythology,
tricksters make the world what it is. They draw
outside the lines, think outside the box, are powerful, mischievous and often happy, despite the reversals their unorthodox behavior causes. The best of them transcend being tricksters and become bona fide mythic
heroes. This
paper compares the lives and achievements of two tricksters-turned-heroes, Ireland's first great king, Brian Boru who was killed in
battle in 1014 and N.Y.C.'s mayor during the 911 tragedy, Rudolph Giuliani. The paper explores how these men made the transition from trickster to hero and how they ensured their myths would endure.