Hero

Achilles fighting against Memnon Leiden Rijksmuseum voor Oudheden

Harold piffard joan of arc

Wilhelm Tell Denkmal Altdorf um 1900

Giuseppe Garibaldi (1866)

Peter Paul Rubens - The Coronation of the Hero of Virtue

Hero refers to a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. The concept of a hero has been an integral part of human history and culture, transcending geographical, cultural, and temporal boundaries. Heroes can be real or fictional, and their stories are often used to inspire, teach, or entertain.

Etymology

The word "hero" comes from the Greek hērōs (ἥρως), originally signifying a demigod. As myths evolved, the term came to refer to individuals who, in the face of danger and adversity or from a position of weakness, display courage and the will for self-sacrifice—that is, heroism—for some greater good of all humanity.

Characteristics

A hero typically possesses traits such as bravery, strength, integrity, and a sense of justice. They often undergo a quest or journey, facing numerous challenges or adversaries along the way. The hero's actions are usually driven by a desire to achieve a goal or protect a value that is deemed important, not only to themselves but also to society at large.

Types of Heroes

Heroes can be categorized in various ways, including but not limited to:

• Mythological heroes: Characters from myths who perform extraordinary deeds. Examples include Hercules, Achilles, and Odysseus.
• Folk heroes: Figures from folk tales or legends who are imbued with qualities that reflect the values of their society. Robin Hood and Johnny Appleseed are examples.
• National heroes: Individuals who have made significant contributions to the history and identity of a nation, often in the context of a struggle for freedom or justice. Examples include George Washington and Nelson Mandela.
• Cultural heroes: People who have contributed significantly to the cultural heritage of a community or nation, such as artists, writers, and musicians. William Shakespeare and Ludwig van Beethoven are examples.
• Modern heroes: Individuals who perform acts of heroism in contemporary settings, often as first responders, soldiers, or activists. These heroes may be recognized for acts of bravery, philanthropy, or bringing about social change.

Heroism in Literature and Media

The hero's journey, a common narrative archetype, describes a hero's venture into the unknown to achieve a goal and return home transformed. This structure, identified by Joseph Campbell in The Hero with a Thousand Faces, is prevalent in many cultures' myths and has been widely applied in modern storytelling, including literature, film, and video games.

Criticism and Reevaluation

The concept of the hero has been subject to criticism and reevaluation, particularly with regard to the exclusion of certain groups from traditional heroic narratives. Critics argue that historical and cultural biases have often led to a narrow interpretation of heroism, one that frequently emphasizes physical strength and martial prowess over other virtues. In response, there has been a push to broaden the definition of heroism to include acts of kindness, resilience, and resistance against injustice, thereby recognizing a more diverse array of heroes.

See Also

• Heroine
• Tragic hero
• Anti-hero
• Superhero

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