essay of characteristics of hero

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10 Qualities of a Hero: What Makes a True Hero According to Psychology

When we think of heroes, we often picture someone brave, selfless, and inspiring. Heroes come in many forms, from everyday people who perform extraordinary acts of kindness to larger-than-life figures who save the world from destruction. But what exactly makes a hero? What qualities do they possess that set them apart from the rest of us?

According to research, heroes share several key characteristics. They are brave, determined, and have a strong sense of conviction. They are also honest and empathetic and have an excellent capacity for nurturing and protecting others. Heroes often put themselves in harm’s way to help others, and they inspire those around them to be their best selves.

One of the most essential qualities of a hero is their moral integrity . Heroes stand up for what is right, even when difficult or unpopular. They do not compromise their values or beliefs, and they are willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Whether they are fighting for social justice, rescuing people from danger, or simply being a positive role model, heroes have a profound impact on the world around them.

Qualities of a Hero: Innate Goodness

As we explore the qualities of a hero, one trait that stands out is their innate goodness. Heroes possess a natural sense of compassion and integrity that sets them apart from others. Let’s take a closer look at these two sub-traits.

Compassion is the ability to feel empathetic towards others and to take action to alleviate their suffering. Heroes possess an innate sense of compassion that drives them to help others in need. They can put themselves in other people’s shoes and understand their pain and struggles. This sense of compassion motivates heroes to act selflessly and put others’ needs before their own.

Integrity is another sub-trait that is closely tied to innate goodness. Heroes possess a strong sense of integrity that guides their actions and decisions. They have a deep-rooted sense of what is right and wrong, and they never compromise their values or beliefs. This unwavering commitment to integrity makes heroes stand out from the crowd. They are willing to make difficult choices and take risks to uphold their principles.

Heroes possess an innate goodness characterized by compassion and integrity. These traits make them stand out from others and inspire us to be better people. By cultivating these qualities within ourselves, we can all strive to be heroes in our own right.

Qualities of a Hero: Courage and Bravery

Courage and bravery are two of the most important qualities of a hero. These qualities are essential in facing difficult situations and overcoming obstacles. In this section, we will discuss the sub-sections of fearlessness and risk-taking.

Fearlessness

Fearlessness is the ability to face danger or difficulty without fear. It is an essential quality of a hero, allowing them to act bravely in the face of adversity. Fearlessness is not the absence of fear but rather the ability to confront and overcome it.

There are many examples of fearlessness in history. For instance, Martin Luther King Jr. was fearless in pursuing civil rights despite facing violence and oppression. Malala Yousafzai was fearless in her fight for education for girls in Pakistan, even after being shot by the Taliban.

Risk Taking

Risk-taking is another essential quality of a hero. It is the willingness to take on challenges and face uncertainty. Heroes often take risks to achieve their goals, even when the odds are against them.

Risk-taking can be seen in many areas of life, from business to sports to personal relationships. For example, Elon Musk took a massive risk in starting SpaceX, a company that aims to colonize Mars. Serena Williams takes risks on the tennis court, going for difficult shots even when it might be safer to play it safe.

Courage and bravery are essential qualities of a hero. Fearlessness and risk-taking are two sub-sections that make up these qualities. Heroes throughout history have demonstrated these qualities in their pursuit of justice, freedom, and other noble causes.

Qualities of a Hero: Selflessness

As we explore the qualities of a hero, we cannot overlook the importance of selflessness. Heroes are often motivated by a desire to help others, even if it means sacrificing their well-being. Selflessness is a trait that is often associated with heroes.

Altruism is defined as the selfless concern for the welfare of others. Heroes often display this trait by putting the needs of others before their own. They are willing to go out of their way to help someone in need, even if it means putting themselves in danger. Altruism is a critical component of selflessness and a quality we should all strive to possess.

Another aspect of selflessness is sacrifice. Heroes often sacrifice their comfort and well-being for the greater good. This could mean giving up their time, money, or safety to help others. Sacrifice is not an easy thing to do, but heroes are willing to make tough choices and put themselves in harm’s way for the benefit of others.

Selflessness is an essential trait of a hero. Altruism and sacrifice are two key components of selflessness that heroes often display. We should all strive to possess these qualities and be willing to put the needs of others before our own.

Qualities of a Hero: Perseverance

Perseverance is a crucial quality of a hero. It means to continue striving towards a goal despite obstacles and setbacks. Heroes are known for their resilience and determination, two key sub-qualities of perseverance.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. Heroes often face complex challenges, but their resilience allows them to overcome them. Resilient people are not easily discouraged by failure or setbacks. Instead, they use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow.

Determination

Determination is the quality of being firmly committed to a goal. Heroes are known for their unwavering determination to achieve their objectives. Determined people are willing to put in the hard work and effort required to succeed. Obstacles or setbacks take time to deter them.

Perseverance is not just about overcoming obstacles but also about maintaining a positive attitude and mindset. Heroes are known for their ability to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of adversity. They understand that setbacks are a natural part of the journey towards success.

Perseverance is an essential quality of a hero. Resilience and determination are two key sub-qualities contributing to a hero’s ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. By cultivating these qualities, we can all become heroes in our own lives.

Qualities of a Hero: Leadership

Leadership is a crucial quality of a hero. Heroic leaders inspire and direct their followers towards a common goal. They possess the ability to motivate others and lead them through challenging situations. In this section, we will discuss the qualities that make a heroic leader.

Inspiration

Heroic leaders inspire their followers to achieve greatness. They possess a clear vision and communicate it effectively to their team. They lead by example and are willing to take risks themselves. They are passionate about their goals and inspire others to share their vision.

One example of an inspiring leader is Nelson Mandela. He fought against apartheid and was imprisoned for 27 years. Despite the hardships he faced, he remained committed to his cause and inspired millions of people around the world. His leadership and determination led to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic South Africa.

Heroic leaders provide direction to their followers. They have a clear plan and communicate it effectively to their team. They ensure that everyone understands their role and responsibilities. They monitor progress and make adjustments as necessary to keep their team on track.

An example of a leader who provided direction is Steve Jobs. He was the co-founder of Apple and was known for his attention to detail. He had a clear vision for the company and communicated it effectively to his team. He turned Apple into one of the most successful companies in the world.

Heroic leaders possess the qualities of inspiration and direction. They inspire their followers to achieve greatness and provide direction to help them reach their goals. They are passionate about their vision and are willing to take risks to achieve it.

Qualities of a Hero: Wisdom

Wisdom is an essential quality of a hero. It is characterized by the ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on knowledge and experience. In this section, we will discuss the two sub-sections of wisdom: judgment and knowledge.

Judgment is the ability to make good decisions based on careful consideration of all available information. It involves weighing the pros and cons of a situation and making a decision that is in the best interest of all parties involved. A hero with good judgment can think critically and objectively, even in high-pressure situations.

One example of a hero with excellent judgment is Nelson Mandela. During his time as the President of South Africa, he made the difficult decision to forgive his oppressors and work towards reconciliation, rather than seeking revenge. This decision helped to heal the wounds of apartheid and set South Africa on a path toward a brighter future.

Knowledge is the foundation of wisdom. It is the accumulation of information and experience that allows a hero to make informed decisions. A hero with extensive knowledge is better equipped to solve problems and make a positive impact on the world.

One example of a hero with vast knowledge is Marie Curie. She was a physicist and chemist who made groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity. Her work led to the developing of new medical treatments and technologies that have saved countless lives.

Wisdom is a crucial quality of a hero. It is the combination of good judgment and extensive knowledge that allows a hero to make a positive impact on the world. By striving to develop our wisdom, we can all become heroes in our own right.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common characteristics of heroic figures.

Heroic figures often possess qualities such as courage, selflessness, and a strong sense of purpose. They are willing to put themselves in harm’s way to help others or achieve a greater good. They also tend to have a strong moral compass and a willingness to stand up for what they believe in, even in the face of adversity.

What are some qualities that make someone a hero?

Some qualities that make someone a hero include bravery, empathy, selflessness, and a willingness to take action. Heroes are often motivated by a desire to make a positive impact on the world and help others, even if it means putting themselves at risk. They also tend to possess a strong sense of integrity and a commitment to doing what is right.

What are some heroic traits that are valued in society?

Society values heroic traits such as courage, selflessness, and a willingness to help others. These traits are seen as admirable and worthy of respect. Other traits that are valued in heroes include perseverance, determination, and a strong sense of purpose.

What distinguishes a hero from an ordinary person?

What distinguishes a hero from an ordinary person is their willingness to take action and put themselves at risk in order to help others or achieve a greater good. Heroes often possess qualities such as courage, selflessness, and a strong sense of purpose that set them apart from others.

What are some examples of people who are considered heroes?

Examples of people who are considered heroes include firefighters, police officers, medical professionals, and members of the military. Other examples include activists, volunteers, and everyday people who have performed acts of kindness or bravery in the face of danger or adversity.

What are some ways in which people can develop heroic qualities?

People can develop heroic qualities by cultivating traits such as courage, empathy, and selflessness. This can be done through practice and by intentionally seeking out opportunities to help others or make a positive impact on the world. Additionally, seeking out role models and learning from their actions can also help to develop heroic qualities.

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9 Compelling Characteristics Of A Hero

Anyone who does anything remotely positive seems to get labeled a hero in the media lately.

They are undoubtedly great people, but the word hero has long been reserved for someone who does something extraordinary.

The qualities of a hero must arouse admiration or even awe.

The word hero derives from the ancient Greek word heros , which held a meaning related to protecting people.

These ancient roots still matter today, although the definition of a hero has evolved in modern times.

What is a True Hero?

1. idealistic, 2. courageous, 3. great capacity for empathy, 4. humility, 5. conviction, 7. strength, 8. nurturing, 9. resilience, examples of a true hero, the psychology of heroism, respect and compassion for strangers, vigilance and fortitude, honesty and confidence, communalism, final thoughts.

A hero's actions must, by definition, go beyond what most people would do.

Ancient literature called people with supernatural abilities heroes because they were born of a god and a human.

Heroes had great strength, like Hercules, or protection from wounds, like Achilles. 

Scholars note that these ancient heroic stories featured men who wanted glory.

People or societies might have sometimes benefited from their heroic deeds, but that was not what motivated ancient heroes.

The modern traits of a hero differ on two points. The modern hero is purely mortal without any notion of divine parentage.

Also, the modern hero must act for the purpose of helping others.

9 Characteristics of a Hero

You won't find just one answer to the question, “What makes someone a hero?”

Psychologists have begun to study the traits that make a hero. A 2009 study initially published in Psychological Reports found that people who exhibited heroic qualities had high confidence in their abilities. 

They were generally competent people who believed themselves capable of succeeding even when the odds were against them. You don't have to spend much time looking at heroes to see that they are complex people. 

They share some or all of the following traits frequently used to describe a hero.

Heroes draw strength from believing that their ideals have merit. They see their ideals as a force for good in the world. They will stand up for their ideals in the face of criticism, personal loss, and even physical danger. 

Idealism generally goes hand in hand with possessing a strong moral code. A deep sense of morality may drive a hero to take action because not taking action would be immoral.

Of course, you expect a hero to be courageous. Courage is one of the top qualities of a hero that people recognize. This characteristic does not merely mean being fearless. 

It more accurately means acting fearless even when being afraid. A courageous person sees that a situation is dangerous or impossible but chooses to overcome fear and try anyway.

Consider the historical example of Harriet Tubman, who made 20 expeditions into the slave-holding Southern United States to smuggle slaves to free areas. Federal law at the time authorized harsh penalties for people aiding escaped slaves. She even had a bounty on her head of $40,000. 

She must have indeed feared capture but pursued her goal of freeing slaves anyway. Her idealism that human bondage was immoral motivated her as well.

The qualities of a hero include caring about other people . They feel the distress of others and want to help them. This capacity is called empathy. It goes beyond sympathy, which is understanding how others might feel. When you're empathetic, you directly experience the emotions of those in trouble.

Dr. Georges Bwelle of Cameroon told CNN that he wanted to reduce people's pain and make them laugh when asked why he provided free medical care in his native country. Dr. Bwelle is an example of an empathetic person who's unwilling to stand by when others suffer.

When you read heartwarming interviews with real-life heroes, they almost always tell the media that being a hero never crossed their minds. They say something along the lines of “I just did what needed to be done.” This is humility. They do not seek glory or awards, or any compensation.

Even the humble, however, can show great courage. In 2013, 69-year-old William Ayotte of Manitoba, Canada, attacked a polar bear with a shovel because it mauled a woman outside his home. 

He bashed the 275-pound animal in the eye with the shovel. The bear dropped the woman and then attacked him. His fast decision to attack saved the woman from certain death. Another neighbor managed to scare the bear away. Ayotte later said that he doesn’t see himself as a hero.

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Sometimes heroes are convinced that they have something important to contribute to the betterment of humanity. An unmovable sense of conviction can give someone the strength to do something extraordinary.

A scientist experimenting on himself may not be your first thought when asked to describe a hero. However, the results of such a dangerous act ultimately benefited humanity in the case of Dr. Barry Marshall of Australia. During his research with pathologist Dr. Robin Warren, Marshall learned that a bacterial infection caused stomach ulcers and not simply stress as the medical community believed.

He tried to tell the medical community that antibiotics could cure ulcers, which are painful and sometimes fatal. His experiments on mice, however, did not produce clear evidence. When no one would believe him, he chose to drink a bacterial liquid and give himself a stomach ulcer, which he cured with antibiotics. 

His conviction gave him the courage to endanger himself. His decision subsequently revolutionized ulcer treatment and saved people from misery and death .

Heroes see situations for what they are. They do not lie to themselves or others about what is going on. They do not shrug off slavery because it is legal. They do not accept that women should not vote because that's what society believes. 

When William Ayotte saw the polar bear attacking a woman, he told himself, “If I don't do anything, she's not going to make it.” In it's simplest form, heroism comes down to making the choice to deal with reality.

People sometimes choose to act heroically when they realize they have the physical strength to do good. Pulling someone from floodwaters takes physical strength. Not everyone can do it, and not everyone who can do it does do it, but a hero will.

Of course, strength is not just about muscles. All heroes require emotional strength . A man who pulls people from a burning car needs the mental strength to place himself in harm's way. Many heroes face great adversity for many years as they pursue their prosocial goals.

To nurture means that you put effort into helping someone else live and thrive. A hero wants to make it possible for other people to succeed. 

Nurturing life extends to the natural world as well. Environmental hero, Marilyn Baptiste of Canada, rallied her indigenous community three times to defeat a mining company that would have destroyed a lake that supported her people's livelihood. 

Environmental campaigners worldwide often face harassment and murder for their efforts to preserve natural resources that sustain communities. Cattle ranchers killed Chico Mendes of Brazil, who fought to save the rain forest. He died a hero.

Activists, doctors, and scientists who devote their lives to just causes must possess resilience . This is one of the most important traits of a hero, especially for those whose heroism consumes their lives. They must recover from defeats and keep going. 

Marilyn Baptiste surely knew many setbacks and betrayals while fighting a proposed mine three times, but she always returned to fight the good fight.

It may happen in a moment of crisis, such as when Lenny Skutnik famously jumped into the icy waters of the Potomac River in Washington D.C. and saved a woman. She had been about to drown after escaping an airplane that had crashed into a bridge. 

The strong desire to save a life motivated the hero to swim out to her. Not everyone on the shore jumped in the water, but he did.

Another type of modern hero accepts ongoing sacrifice and risk in the pursuit of a positive goal. The famous suffragette Alice Paul endured physical attacks and harassment while picketing the White House alongside her allies. 

She went to prison for protesting the government. In prison, she organized a hunger strike to continue to promote voting rights for women despite losing her freedom and suffering abuse.

Modern examples like these illustrate that a hero:

• Rises to the occasion
• Disregards personal safety
• Wants to benefit others
• Does not accept being helpless

What types of people grow up to be heroes?

Courage, resilience, and compassion are common traits among valiant actors. Heroes also exhibit a heightened degree of empathy, which makes sense, as they're highly attuned and motivated by others' needs, often prioritizing them over their own well-being. 

But personal attributes aren't the only contributing factor when defining heroism. Situational, social, and cultural factors also play a role, and they're not always purely altruistic. 

For example, some would-be heroes may be motivated to go above and beyond when people are watching due to the increased possibility of widespread admiration and praise. 

Urgency and association also have a significant impact. For instance, someone who loves their pets like children may find the courage to run into a burning building to save them. 

Several studies suggest that individuals who perform incredible feats in service of others slip into a “flow state,” meaning their body and mind are in perfect communion, resulting in intense focus and enhanced ability. 

All that said, heroism is a bit of a psychological anomaly and presents on a spectrum — like many personality categories. 

Dr. Frank Farley explains the phenomenon by distinguishing between small-h and big-H heroism. Here's how he defines the two.

• Big-H Heroism : Farley associates big-H heroism with substantial risk, including imprisonment, injury, or even death. In some cases, their valor is monumental enough to change the course of history. People like Rosa Parks, the unknown Tiananmen Square protestor, and Witold Pilecki fall into this category.
• Small-h Heroism : Farley uses Fred Rogers, from Mister Rogers's Neighborhood, as an exemplar of “everyday heroism.” These folks deeply believe in “helping others, doing good deeds, showing kindness, etc., where serious harm or major consequences are not usually a result.”

How You Can Develop Hero Traits 

Is heroism something you're born with, or can it be developed? In his article, “ What Makes a Hero ,” Philip Zimbardo argues for the latter and advocates teaching “heroic imagination.” But how? 

Research shows that fostering certain behaviors and traits may strengthen “heroic instincts.” Let's look at what those are.

Individuals who are more open to and respectful of strangers tend to be more heroic. Why? Because they're less likely to be hamstrung by a subconscious indifference to people different from themselves. 

Parents should, of course, teach their kids about “stranger danger.” However, developing a reverence for all living things can increase one's capacity for heroism.

There's a mental fitness element to heroism. 

Specifically, most are hyper-aware of their surroundings, allowing them to act quickly and appropriately. Sometimes it's instinctual; other times, it's studied. 

Heroes also need emotional fortitude to forge through harrowing situations and circumstances.

Though some acts of heroism are semi-rooted in the potential for personal adulation, most people who demonstrate impressive bravery are unfailingly honest. 

This may be a symptom of true confidence, as people with it have usually dissected themselves, tackled their shadow selves, and developed a healthy sense of humility. When folks have done “the work,” they're refreshingly honest with themselves and others. Plus, they're typically more motivated to lend helping hands because they understand the universality of pain and struggle.

Heroes value “we” over “me.” So if you want to enhance your “hero quotient,” learning to love the beauty of community — both micro and macro — is vital. People who believe “it takes a village” are usually more willing to stick their necks out for fellow humans.

Heroes show us how to take care of each other, whether through a one-time act of bravery or a lifetime of fighting for the greater good.

When life tests you, the good examples set by heroes set the standard for how to respond.

Heroes also inspire people to lead productive lives helping those around them. Their successes give more people the courage to do what needs to be done.

Even in failure, heroes can show people that the struggle was worth the sacrifice. No one looks up to people who never tried to make things better. No one will even remember them.

Although the modern hero embraces humility, the ancient notion of glory remains intact. The glory comes from leading others to the high road even when the journey is difficult. 

Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

What Makes a Hero?

This month, Greater Good features videos of a presentation by Philip Zimbardo, the world-renowned psychologist perhaps best known for his infamous Stanford Prison Experiment. In his talk, Zimbardo discusses the psychology of evil and of heroism, exploring why good people sometimes turn bad and how we can encourage more people to perform heroic acts. In this excerpt from his talk, he zeroes in on his research and educational program designed to foster the “heroic imagination.”

More on Heroism

Watch the video of Philip Zimbardo's Greater Good talk on heroism.

Read his essay on " The Banality of Heroism ," which further explores the conditions that can promote heroism vs. evil.

Read this Greater Good essay on the "psychology of the bystander."

Learn more about Zimbardo's Heroic Imagination Project.

What makes us good? What makes us evil?

Research has uncovered many answers to the second question: Evil can be fostered by dehumanization, diffusion of responsibility, obedience to authority, unjust systems, group pressure, moral disengagement, and anonymity, to name a few.

But when we ask why people become heroic, research doesn’t yet have an answer. It could be that heroes have more compassion or empathy; maybe there’s a hero gene; maybe it’s because of their levels of oxytocin—research by neuroeconomist Paul Zak has shown that this “love hormone” in the brain increases the likelihood you’ll demonstrate altruism. We don’t know for sure.

I believe that heroism is different than altruism and compassion. For the last five years, my colleagues and I have been exploring the nature and roots of heroism, studying exemplary cases of heroism and surveying thousands of people about their choices to act (or not act) heroically. In that time, we’ve come to define heroism as an activity with several parts.

First, it’s performed in service to others in need—whether that’s a person, group, or community—or in defense of certain ideals. Second, it’s engaged in voluntarily, even in military contexts, as heroism remains an act that goes beyond something required by military duty. Third, a heroic act is one performed with recognition of possible risks and costs, be they to one’s physical health or personal reputation, in which the actor is willing to accept anticipated sacrifice. Finally, it is performed without external gain anticipated at the time of the act.

Simply put, then, the key to heroism is a concern for other people in need—a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there is a personal risk, done without expectation of reward.

By that definition, then, altruism is heroism light—it doesn’t always involve a serious risk. Compassion is a virtue that may lead to heroism, but we don’t know that it does. We’re just now starting to scientifically distinguish heroism from these other concepts and zero in on what makes a hero.

My work on heroism follows 35 years of research in which I studied the psychology of evil, including my work on the infamous Stanford Prison Experiment . The two lines of research aren’t as different as they might seem; they’re actually two sides of the same coin.

A key insight from research on heroism so far is that the very same situations that inflame the hostile imagination in some people, making them villains, can also instill the heroic imagination in other people, prompting them to perform heroic deeds.

Take the Holocaust. Christians who helped Jews were in the same situation as other civilians who helped imprison or kill Jews, or ignored their suffering. The situation provided the impetus to act heroically or malevolently. Why did some people choose one path or the other?

Another key insight from my research has been that there’s no clear line between good and evil. Instead, the line is permeable; people can cross back and forth between it.

This is an idea wonderfully represented in an illusion by M. C. Escher, at left. When you squint and focus on the white as the figures and the black as the background, you see a world full of angels and tutus dancing around happily. But now focus on the black as the figures and the white as the background: Now it’s a world full of demons.

What Escher’s telling us is that the world is filled with angels and devils, goodness and badness, and these dark and light aspects of human nature are our basic yin and yang. That is, we all are born with the capacity to be anything. Because of our incredible brains, anything that is imaginable becomes possible, anything that becomes possible can get transformed into action, for better or for worse. 

Some people argue humans are born good or born bad; I think that’s nonsense. We are all born with this tremendous capacity to be anything, and we get shaped by our circumstances—by the family or the culture or the time period in which we happen to grow up, which are accidents of birth; whether we grow up in a war zone versus peace; if we grow up in poverty rather than prosperity.

George Bernard Shaw captured this point in the preface to his great play “Major Barbara”: “Every reasonable man and woman is a potential scoundrel and a potential good citizen. What a man is depends upon his character what’s inside. What he does and what we think of what he does depends on upon his circumstances.”

So each of us may possess the capacity to do terrible things. But we also posses an inner hero; if stirred to action, that inner hero is capable of performing tremendous goodness for others.

Another conclusion from my research is that few people do evil and fewer act heroically. Between these extremes in the bell curve of humanity are the masses—the general population who do nothing, who I call the “reluctant heroes”—those who refuse the call to action and, by doing nothing, often implicitly support the perpetrators of evil.

So on this bell curve of humanity, villains and heroes are the outliers. The reluctant heroes are the rest. What we need to discover is how to give a call to service to this general population. How do we make them aware of the evil that exists? How do we prevent them from getting seduced to the dark side?

We don’t yet have a recipe for creating heroes, but we have some clues, based on the stories of some inspiring heroes.

I love the story of a wonderful nine-year-old Chinese boy, who I call a dutiful hero. In 2008, there was a massive earthquake in China’s Szechuan province. The ceiling fell down on a school, killing almost all the kids in it. This kid escaped, and as he was running away he noticed two other kids struggling to get out. He ran back and saved them. He was later asked, “Why did you do that?” He replied, “I was the hall monitor! It was my duty, it was my job to look after my classmates!”

This perfectly illustrates what I call the “heroic imagination,” a focus on one’s duty to help and protect others. For him, it was cultivated by being assigned this role of hall monitor.

Another story: Irena Sendler was a Polish hero, a Catholic woman who saved at least 2,500 Jewish kids who were holed up in the Warsaw ghetto that the Nazis had erected. She was able to convince the parents of these kids to allow her to smuggle them out of the ghetto to safety. To do this, she organized a network.

That is a key principle of heroism: Heroes are most effective not alone but in a network. It’s through forming a network that people have the resources to bring their heroic impulses to life.

What these stories suggest is that every one of us can be a hero. Through my work on heroism, I’ve become even more convinced that acts of heroism don’t just arrive from truly exceptional people but from people placed in the right circumstance, given the necessary tools to transform compassion into heroic action.

Building on these insights, I have helped to start a program designed to learn more of heroism and to create the heroes of tomorrow.

The Heroic Imagination Project (HIP) is amplifying the voice of the world’s quiet heroes, using research and education networks to promote a heroic imagination in everyone, and then empower ordinary people of all ages and nations to engage in extraordinary acts of heroism. We want to democratize the notion of heroism, to emphasize that most heroes are ordinary people; it’s the act that’s extraordinary.

There are already a lot of great heroes projects out there, such as the Giraffe Heroes Project . The HIP is unique in that it’s the only one encouraging research into heroism, because there’s very little.

Here are a few key insights from research we’ve done surveying 4,000 Americans from across the country. Each of these statements is valid after controlling for all demographic variables, such as education and socioeconomic status.

Heroes surround us. One in five—20 percent—qualify as heroes, based on the definition of heroism I provide above. Seventy-two percent report helping another person in a dangerous emergency. Sixteen percent report whistle blowing on an injustice. Six percent report sacrificing for a non-relative or stranger. Fifteen percent report defying an unjust authority. And not one of these people has been formally recognized as a hero.

Opportunity matters. Most acts of heroism occur in urban areas, where there are more people and more people in need. You’re not going to be a hero if you live in the suburbs. No shit happens in the suburbs!

Education matters. The more educated you are, the more likely you are to be a hero, I think because you are more aware of situations.

Volunteering matters. One third of all the sample who were heroes also had volunteered significantly, up to 59 hours a week.

Gender matters. Males reported performing acts of heroism more than females. I think this is because women tend not to regard a lot of their heroic actions as heroic. It’s just what they think they’re supposed to do for their family or a friend.

Race matters. Blacks were eight times more likely than whites to qualify as heroes. We think that’s in part due to the rate of opportunity. (In our next survey, we’re going to track responses by area code to see if in fact these heroes are coming from inner cities.

Personal history matters. Having survived a disaster or personal trauma makes you three times more likely to be a hero and a volunteer.

Based on these insights into heroism, we’ve put together a toolkit for potential heroes, especially young heroes in training, who already have opportunities to act heroically when they’re kids, such as by opposing bullying.

A first step is to take the “hero pledge,” a public declaration on our website that says you’re willing to be a hero in waiting. It’s a pledge “to act when confronted with a situation where I feel something is wrong,” “to develop my heroic abilities,” and “to believe in the heroic capacities within myself and others, so I can build and refine them.”

You can also take our four-week “Hero Challenge” mini-course online to help you develop your heroic muscles. The challenge may not require you to do anything heroic, but it’s training you to be heroic. And we offer more rigorous, research-based education and training programs for middle and high schools, corporations, and the millitary that make people aware of the social factors that produce passivity, inspire them to take positive civic action, and encourage the skills needed to consistently translate heroic impulses into action.

We’re also in the process of creating an Encyclopedia of Heroes, a collection of hero stories from all over the world. Not just all the classic ones and fictional ones, but ones that people from around the world are going to send in, so they can nominate ordinary heroes with a picture and a story. It will be searchable, so you can find heroes by age, gender, city and country. These are the unsung, quiet heroes—they do their own thing, put themselves in danger, defend a moral cause, help someone in need. And we want to highlight them. We want them to be inspirational to other people just like them.

Essentially, we’re trying to build the social habits of heroes, to build a focus on the other, shifting away from the “me” and toward the “we.” As the poet John Donne wrote: “No man [or woman] is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; … any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.”

So every person is part of humanity. Each person’s pulse is part of humanity’s heartbeat. Heroes circulate the life force of goodness in our veins. And what the world needs now is more heroes—you. It’s time to take action against evil.

About the Author

Philip Zimbardo

Philip Zimbardo, Ph.D. , is a professor emeritus of psychology at Stanford University, a professor at Palo Alto University, a two-time past president of the Western Psychological Association, and a past president of the American Psychological Association. He is also the author of the best-selling book The Lucifer Effect and the president of the Heroic Imagination Project .

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Very nice information. In this world this is the very difficult question that what makes people good or evil. This post has helped a lot to understand the difference. Actually in my point of it depends upon the individual that what he/she thinks. If he/she thinks negative all the time them they became evil and thinking vice versa makes them good.

Andrew | 2:31 am, January 19, 2011 | Link

I really like reading this article because there are many individuals in the world that are heroes but are not recognized.  Heroes that have help humanity progress and prosper have fought with the greatest weapons which are love, respect, sincerity, and peace.  The governments that have had the greatest fear of seeing people free have always use war for colonization, genocide, and false treaties.  However, love is much stronger than war, and thanks to the modern forms of communication and exchange of information, more people are united for peace and do not support or participate in colonization or human genocide.  Since the start of humanity most people have use peace to progress, few have participated in war and few are participating. May peace prevail on earth!

Victor | 7:48 pm, January 29, 2011 | Link

A son raising up against an evil father. A brother standing up to a bully attacking his sibling. A stranger rallying to the side of a woman being assaulted in the street.

My sons are my strength. My reason to help others, that they may find the help they need in their lives.

pops | 9:39 am, February 3, 2011 | Link

Of course religion and eduction has a big impact on a child. But once a child is trying to live a good life (earning good karma or call it whatever you want) good things will happen to that child and he or she will recognize this.

So I think you can definitely change from evil to good.. maybe you _can be changed_ from good to evil.

Massud Hosseini | 7:28 am, September 17, 2011 | Link

Actually in my point of it depends upon the individual that what he/she thinks

asalah | 9:41 pm, September 24, 2011 | Link

“Research has uncovered many answers to the second question: Evil can be fostered by dehumanization, diffusion of responsibility, obedience to authority, unjust systems, group pressure, moral disengagement, and anonymity, to name a few.”  <—What I find amazing about this statement is that anything is being branded “evil” at all.  Well, maybe not.  Relativism seems to be something that’s employed when convenient, disregarded when it’s not.

Kukri | 6:58 pm, November 6, 2011 | Link

This is a very comprehensive discussion on heroism. Victor makes a great point in his comment about how most heroes go unnoticed by the vast majority of people. I think that lack of notoriety is part of what it means to be a hero: doing that which is unexpected without the need for a pat on the back. quotes for facebook status

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When a sniper’s bullet hits one soldier and misses the person next to him, that alone does not make the wounded soldier more heroic.

brokesteves | 6:10 am, April 24, 2012 | Link

Exploring the characteristics of heroes

Posted on August 25, 2015 by Carnegie Hero Fund

By Brian R. Riches School of Social Science, Policy & Evaluation Claremont (Calif.) Graduate University

Anyone can be a hero.  A civilian who rescues another person from a fire at great physical risk is a hero.  Holocaust rescuers who risked life or social standing to help others were heroes.  An employee who is aware of unethical or illegal activities in their organization and reveals them at the risk of their job, income, and social standing is also a hero.  Current conceptions in psychology define heroism as a voluntarily act for the good of one or more people at significant risk to the self, without being motivated by reward.  Risk to the hero makes heroism a distinct form of altruism, and it can come in the form of physical or social risk.

The psychology literature on heroes is sparse.  There are studies comparing the traits and characteristics of heroes to more typical individuals, and studies investigating laypersons’ views of heroes.  There is also a growing understanding that not all heroes are the same.  Recently, I completed a study of many heroes who took different risks—both social and physical—to help others.   The purpose of the project was to take a wider look into the profiles of characteristics that heroes possess in an attempt to discover if there are different types of heroes, and if there are distinct and shared characteristics among them.

An analysis of the data obtained from recognized heroes, including many awardees of the Carnegie Medal, revealed two groups of heroes with distinct psychological characteristics.  Characteristics ranked differently distinguished the groups, although some shared characteristics emerged.  Specifically, participants in both groups ranked courage, perseverance, honesty, humor, bravery, and kindness as like them, but public self-awareness, hedonism, shame, contempt, and wisdom as unlike them.

In addition to characteristic rankings, participants commented on why they felt any given characteristic was like, or unlike, them. These free responses go beyond the list of characteristics to flesh out the experiences of heroes with these characteristics and virtues. One participant discussed the shared characteristic of perseverance: “Plain and simple, I will not give up. I will always keep going regardless of how miserable I am, how painful…my situation is.”

The first group of participants, which I refer to open, loving, and risk-taking heroes, differed most dramatically from the second group in their rankings of the characteristics of curiosity, love of learning, love, and risk taking as “exactly like me.”  These participants were open and curious to explore in the world.  Although all of the study’s participants took significant risk to help others, this group claimed to take risks more generally in their daily life, whereas the second group reported being generally prudent.

One participant in the open, loving, and risk-taking group said, “I have always thrown caution to the wind.” Meanwhile, one participant from the other group said, “I have a constant internal dialogue. I do not do things without carefully thinking about the consequences and costs.”

The second group— spiritual, socially responsible, and prudent heroes—distinguished themselves with high rankings on spirituality, social responsibility, and prudence rather than risk taking.  In contrast, the open, loving, and risk-taking heroes did not claim a sense of spirituality or faith.  While both groups have a deep concern for the welfare of others, the spiritual, socially responsible, and prudent heroes tended to claim that a spirituality or faith provides purpose and guides their goals and interactions with others. The open, loving, and risk-taking heroes do indeed have concern for others, but this concern is not rooted in spiritual purpose or belief in a higher power.  Further, the spiritual, socially responsible, and prudent heroes ranked both zest and joy far lower, indicating that they may be less happy or more stoic than the other group.

As a clear example of their spirituality, one spiritual, socially responsible, and prudent hero said, “I believe Jesus Christ is the son of God and the savior of the world.  Therefore I commit my life to his will, purpose, and plan.”  In contrast, an open, loving, and risk-taking hero said, “There is no higher power.  We are all equal and we are all worthy.  Our ‘purpose,’ if we need one, is to survive.  It is that simple.”

The two groups of heroes revealed in this research had almost an equal number of those who took physical and social risks in each group.  It may be easy to conceptualize heroic acts based on their risks, whether social or physical, and assume all heroes are impulsive when they act, but the truth appears more nuanced.  It may be more useful to conceptualize, categorize, and assess heroic persons based on their characteristic profiles.  Doing so acts as a step toward understanding the full picture of the development of heroes over their lifespan as they interact with various situations, not only those requiring heroic action.  I intend to use this work as a stepping-stone toward understanding how individual characteristics influence heroes as they interact with the world around them and develop across the lifespan.

Return to imPULSE index . See PDF of this issue.

Essays About Heroes: 5 Examples And Topic Ideas

Here, we’ll look at examples of essays about heroes and questions that can be used as topics for essays about an imagined or real hero.

A few different images likely come to mind when you hear the word hero. You may imagine Superman flying above the world with his superpower of flight. You may imagine a personal hero, a real person who has made a significant impact on your life for the better. You might think of a true hero as someone who has shown heroic qualities in the public eye, working to help ordinary people through difficult situations.

When writing an essay about your life hero, it’s important to consider the qualities of that person that make them stand out to you. Whether you choose to write an essay about how your mom got you through tough times and became your role model or about a political figure who made a difference in the lives of people in history, it’s key to not just focus on the person’s actions—you’ll also want to focus on the qualities that allowed them to act heroically.

Here, we’ll explore examples of hero essays and potential topics to consider when writing about a hero.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers

Examples Of Essays About Heroes

• 1. These Are The Heroes Of The Coronavirus Pandemic By Ruth Marcus
• 2. Why Teachers Are My Heroes By Joshua Muskin
• 3. Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

4. Steve Prefontaine: The Track Of A Hero By Bill O’Brian

5. forget hamilton, burr is the real hero by carey wallace, topic ideas for essays about heroes, 1. what makes a hero, 2. what are the most important characteristics of heroes in literature, 3. what constitutes a heroic act, 4. is selflessness required for heroism, 1.  these are the heroes of the coronavirus pandemic  by ruth marcus.

“Is this what they signed up for? There is some danger inherent in the ordinary practice of medicine, but not this much. I confess: I do not know that I would do the same in their circumstances; I am not sure I am so generous or so brave. If my child were graduating from medical school, how would I deal with her being sent, inadequately protected, into an emergency room? If my husband were a physician, would I send him off to the hospital — or let him back into the house in the interim?” Ruth Marcus

Healthcare workers have had no choice but to go above and beyond in recent years. In this essay, Marcus discusses the heroism of those in the healthcare field. He delves into the traits (including selflessness and courage) that make doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers heroes.

2.  Why Teachers Are My Heroes   By Joshua Muskin

“Teachers are my heroes because they accept this responsibility and try extremely hard to do this well even when the conditions in which they work are far from ideal; at least most do. Our jobs as society, education systems, and parents is to do our best to be strong allies to teachers, since their success is essential to ours.” Joshua Muskin

In this essay, Dr. Muskin discusses the many challenges teachers face and what parents, administrators, and education researchers can do to help teachers support students. Muskin explains that most teachers go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their classrooms.

3.  Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero   By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

“During this nonviolent protest, activists used boycotts, sit-ins, and marches to protest segregation and unfair hiring practices that caught the attention of the entire world. However, his tactics were put to the test when police brutality was used against the marchers, and King was arrested. But, his voice was not silenced, as he wrote his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” to refute his critics.” Kathy Weiser-Alexander

In this essay, Weiser-Alexander details both the traits and the actions of Dr. King before and during the civil rights movement. The author touches on King’s commitment to justice, persistence, and willingness to stand for his beliefs despite difficult circumstances.

“I remember this so vividly because Prefontaine was a hero to me, a hero in a way that no one was before, or really has been since. A British commentator once called him “an athletic Beatle.” If so, his persona was much more Lennon than McCartney. Actually, I thought of him more as Mick Jagger — or ultimately James Dean.” Bill O’Brian

A hero to many in the running world, Prefontaine’s confidence, unique style, and unmatched athletic ability have been heralded for decades. In this essay, O’Brian shares how he, as a distance runner during the era of Pre, related to his struggles and ambition.

“Burr fought against an ugly tide of anti-immigrant sentiment in the young republic, led by Hamilton’s Federalist party, which suggested that anyone without English heritage was a second-class citizen, and even challenged the rights of non-Anglos to hold office. In response, Burr insisted that anyone who contributed to society deserved all the rights of any other citizen, no matter their background.” Carey Wallace

In this essay, Wallace explains why Aaron Burr, the lifelong nemesis of founding father Alexander Hamilton, should be considered a historical hero. This essay exposes someone seen as a villain but much of society with a different take on their history. 

It can be interesting to think about your definition of a hero. When describing what the term hero means to you, you may want to choose a person (or a few people) you look up to as a hero to solidify your point. You might want to include fictional characters (such as those in the Marvel universe) and real-life brave souls, such as police officers and firefighters.

A word of caution: stay away from the cliche opening of describing how the dictionary defines a hero. Instead, lead-in with a personal story about a hero who has affected your life. While talking about a public figure as a hero is acceptable, you may find it easier to write about someone close to you who you feel has displayed heroic qualities. Writing about a family member or friend who has shown up as a heroic main character in your life can be just as exciting as writing about a real or imagined superhero.

From Beowulf to Marvel comics, heroes in literature take on many different traits. When writing an essay on what trait makes a hero come alive in a short story, novel, or comic, choose a few of your favorite heroes and find common themes that they share.

Perhaps your favorite heroes are selfless and are willing to put themselves last in the name of sacrifice for others. Perhaps they’re able to dig deep into the truth, being honest even when it’s hard, for the greater good. There’s no need to list endless heroes to make your point—choosing three or four heroes from literature can be a great way to support your argument about what characteristics define heroism in literature.

When someone is named a hero in real life, we often picture them saving people from a burning building or performing a difficult surgical operation. It can be difficult to pin down exactly what constitutes a heroic act. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, think about people who go above and beyond, performing feats of courage, honesty, and bravery to support themselves or others. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, discuss real-life or literary examples of heroes at work.

To many people, being a hero means giving back to others. While giving something away or trading in one’s well-being for others can certainly be seen as a heroic act, many people wonder if selflessness is required for heroism or if a hero can serve the greater good in a way that also supports their happiness. When writing about whether selflessness is required for heroism, choose examples from literature and real-life to support your point.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you’re still stuck, check out our available resource of essay writing topics .

Amanda has an M.S.Ed degree from the University of Pennsylvania in School and Mental Health Counseling and is a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer. She has experience writing magazine articles, newspaper articles, SEO-friendly web copy, and blog posts.

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Great Eight Traits of Heroes

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• First Online: 15 July 2023
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• George R. Goethals 4  

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Hero characteristics ; Hero factors ; Hero traits ; Hero virtues

The traits that define heroes according to studies of people’s perceptions are smart, strong, selfless, caring, charismatic, resilient, reliable, and inspiring.

People who seek to understand heroism often ask: “What are heroes really like?” Can we identify what separates them from mere mortals? Scholars have coalesced around several closely related definitions of the behaviors and personal qualities that define heroism. There is consensus around the idea, for example, that heroism involves courage and self-sacrifice. Another way to think about the characteristics of heroes is to find out what ordinary people think defines them. One of our studies asked people to sort cards with a personal trait listed on each one into different piles based on their similarity to each other (Allison and Goethals 2011 ). A statistical analysis of all of the sortings revealed eight different kinds of traits. We called them...

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Allison, S.T., and G.R. Goethals. 2011. Heroes: What they do and why we need them . New York: Oxford University Press.

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Goethals, G.R. (2023). Great Eight Traits of Heroes. In: Encyclopedia of Heroism Studies. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-17125-3_259-1

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The Psychology of Heroism

Are Heroes Born or Made?

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Shereen Lehman, MS, is a healthcare journalist and fact checker. She has co-authored two books for the popular Dummies Series (as Shereen Jegtvig).

Caven Images / Getty Images

• Bystander Effect

Heroes touch our hearts, fill us with admiration, and make us reconsider our views of the world . Just look at the plethora of superhero movies that are made and it's easy to see how much our society values and loves heroes. 

But what makes real-life people take heroic actions in the face of great danger? This question is at the heart of hero psychology and requires that we first define what heroism is.

Defining Heroism

In a strict dictionary sense, heroism is defined as taking a courageous action . An example would be running into a burning building to save children inside. Yet, in the field of psychology, the definition of heroism can vary from one psychologist or researcher to the next.

According to one review of the literature, researchers from various departments of psychology indicate that a hero is someone who:

• Uplifts and enhances other people's lives
• Models societal morals , values, and virtues
• Protects others

Others suggest that the definition of heroism is more subjective and "in the eye of the beholder." They contend that how heroism is defined varies based on a person's values, personal preferences, stage of life, and even their level of maturity.

Examples of Heroism

Perhaps the best way to understand heroism is to see it in action. When looking around, we can find many examples of heroism in everyday life.

• On November 6, 2023, a police officer in the Lincoln, Nebraska area was called a hero for risking his own life to save a kayaker who had flipped over in dangerously cold water and crying for help. Upon hearing her cries, Officer Pierce Krouse removed his gear, swam to the woman, put her on the kayak, and returned them both to shore.
• In March 2023, 5-year-old Easton Spann was awarded the American Red Cross's Acts of Courage award and declared a hero for taking action when his grandmother was having a seizure. Spann is on the autism spectrum and, with his grandfather's instruction, was able to unlock the home, open the door, and watch for rescuers to arrive.
• Tescha Hawley was declared one of CNN's 2023 Heroes of the Year for using her own fight with cancer to help others in her Native American community who are battling this disease. Hawley does this through the Day Eagle Hope Project which she founded in 2017. This project not only provides individuals with much-needed support but also offers access to fresh food, help with chemical addiction , and equine therapy as a form of suicide prevention for at-risk youth .

Why do people like those mentioned above become heroes? Are there any characteristics of heroism that these individuals seem to share? These are the types of questions that the psychology of heroism attempts to answer. Here are a few theories related to hero psychology.

"Big H Heroism" vs. "Small h Heroism"

Psychology professor Frank Farley makes a distinction between what he calls "big H heroism" and "small h heroism." Big H heroism involves a potentially big risk such as getting hurt, going to jail, or even death. Small h heroism, on the other hand, involves things many of us do every day: helping someone out, being kind, and standing up for justice. These things don't typically involve personal risk on our part.

Farley suggests that there are two key factors underlying the grand acts of heroism that involve a risk of personal harm: risk-taking behavior and generosity. People who risk their lives in the service of another are naturally more likely to take greater risks and they also possess a great deal of compassion, kindness, empathy, and altruism.

Nature vs. Nurture

One of the biggest questions researchers face comes down to the age-old debate over nature versus nurture . Is heroism something we are born with or is heroism something that can be learned?

Researchers have long theorized that both people and animals are more likely to help those to whom they are genetically related, a concept known as kin selection. By helping those who share our genes, we help ensure the likelihood that those genes will be passed on to future generations.

Others suggest that heroism can be learned. The Heroic Imagination Project operates on this notion, seeking to "create everyday heroes" through strategies that combine psychological research, education, and social activism.

Reciprocal Altruism

Another theory as to why some people commit heroic acts for others is based on the concept of reciprocity . More specifically, it involves reciprocal altruism. According to reciprocal altruism, we help others with the expectation that someday they might help us in return.

Other Influential Factors

What about the kinds of altruism that don't hinge on helping relatives or expecting some type of payback? In such cases, situational, cultural, and personality variables can play pivotal roles.

After people take heroic actions, they often claim that they don't see themselves as heroes. They were simply doing what anyone in that situation would have done.

In a study published in 2016, researchers suggested that those who have a particular mindset that leads them to behave confidently and morally in difficult situations tend to act immediately and unconsciously when an emergency occurs.

What Causes Someone to Not Be Heroic?

The same situational forces that galvanize some individuals to heroic acts can actually impede others from helping. When a crisis arises in the presence of many people, we can fall into a trap of inaction by assuming that someone else will offer assistance, a phenomenon known as the bystander effect .

Because personal responsibility is diffused by the presence of others, we believe that someone else will take on the role of the hero. Some people may also have personality traits that predispose them to not behave in altruistic and heroic ways.

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Allison ST, Goethals GR. Defining heroism: Objectively possible or in the eye of the beholder? University of Richmond School of Arts & Sciences.

Fergeson S. Local hero saves a woman's life . Nebraska TV - ABC

American Red Cross. 2023 Acts of Courage Awards honor local heroes .

Torgan A. This CNN Hero's battle with cancer inspired her lifesaving work helping families in her Native American community . CNN Heroes.

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Heroic Imagination Project. Our mission .

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By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

What Is a Hero? Definition & 30+ Examples

Have you ever been captivated by the story of a hero? Perhaps you’ve cheered for a superhero as they swooped in to save the day or been moved by the selfless actions of a historical figure who risked everything for a noble cause.

Heroes have been a part of human storytelling for thousands of years, appearing in literature, mythology, and pop culture worldwide. But what does it truly mean to be a hero? Is it about possessing superhuman abilities, or is it something more intangible, like bravery, selflessness, or a willingness to stand up for what’s right?

In this article, we’ll explore the concept of heroism in all its complexity, examining the definition and various types of heroes and the archetypes and narratives that have shaped our understanding of heroism.

Table of Contents

What Is a Hero?

A “hero” can be broadly defined as a person who exhibits exceptional courage, strength, or achievements, and is held in high esteem by others for their deeds. The concept of heroism transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, taking on various forms depending on the historical context and culture it emerges from.

Throughout history, heroes have been celebrated for their exceptional abilities and noble qualities that set them apart from ordinary individuals. These iconic figures have not only captured the imaginations of countless generations, but also provided valuable insights into the human condition and its inherent complexities.

The Origins Of Heroism

The concept of heroism has evolved significantly throughout human history, with its roots traceable to ancient cultures and mythologies.

In early civilizations, heroes were often depicted as individuals who possessed:

• Exceptional physical strength
• Divine attributes

These qualities enabled them to perform acts of great valor that transcended the capabilities of ordinary humans.

For instance, in Greek mythology, Hercules was celebrated for his extraordinary feats, which included slaying mythical beasts and undertaking seemingly impossible tasks.

Similarly, in Norse mythology, the god Thor was revered for his incredible strength and prowess in battle. These examples illustrate how the idea of a hero emerged from a need to explain extraordinary human achievements and serve as an inspiration for society.

In addition to their physical abilities, heroes have been characterized by their moral virtues throughout history. This aspect of heroism emerged with the development of philosophical thought, which emphasized ethics and moral principles as essential components of an individual’s character.

Consequently, heroes became associated with virtues such as honor , integrity , selflessness , and loyalty — qualities that set them apart from others and allowed them to act as role models for their communities.

For example:

• Confucius in ancient China advocated for individuals to cultivate moral virtues to achieve personal growth and contribute positively to society.
• In Western culture, chivalric heroes like King Arthur exemplified the ideal knightly code of conduct based on honor, loyalty, and service.

As societies continued to evolve over time, so too did the notion of heroism; it began incorporating more diverse figures who contributed positively to their communities through various means beyond physical prowess or military feats.

This shift reflected societal changes that placed greater emphasis on intellectual pursuits and social progress rather than just martial accomplishments or divine favoritism.

Traditional vs. Modern Interpretations

The traditional heroes of ancient myths and legends have evolved into the more complex and diverse range of figures we celebrate as heroes today. The heroes of the modern era can generally be divided into two categories:

Extraordinary Individuals

These heroes are ordinary people who display exceptional acts of bravery, selflessness, or resilience in the face of adversity. They include figures like firefighters, police officers, and soldiers, who risk their lives to protect and serve others.

Exemplary Achievers

These heroes are people who have achieved remarkable accomplishments in various fields, inspiring others with their determination, work ethic, and success. Examples include athletes, scientists, and artists, who break barriers and redefine what is possible in their respective fields.

It is important to note that the definition of heroism is fluid and subject to change. However, the core essence of heroism remains the same: a champion’s heart , imbued with courage, compassion, and the drive to make a positive impact on the world.

Characteristics of a Hero

A hero is often admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, and noble qualities, but what characteristics make someone a hero?

Physical Attributes

While not all heroes possess extraordinary physical strength, many display a level of physical prowess that enables them to overcome challenges and protect others. Some common physical attributes among heroes include:

• Strength : Many heroes possess a degree of physical strength that enables them to carry out their heroic acts.
• Endurance : Heroes often exhibit impressive stamina, allowing them to persevere in the face of physical challenges.
• Agility : Quick reflexes and the ability to move swiftly can be valuable assets for a hero.

Personality Traits

In addition to specific physical skills, heroes tend to exhibit particular personality traits that contribute to their heroic nature. Some of these traits include:

• Courage : Heroes face their fears and take risks in order to achieve their goals and protect others.
• Resilience : Heroes are often able to bounce back from setbacks or failures and continue pursuing their goals with determination.
• Humility : A true hero often does not seek the limelight or recognition; they are typically modest about their accomplishments.
• Selflessness : Heroes prioritize the needs of others, often putting themselves at risk to help those in need.

Values and Beliefs

A hero’s values and beliefs can play a crucial role in shaping their actions and propelling them to make a positive impact. Common values and beliefs among heroes may include:

• Integrity : Heroes often possess a strong moral compass, guiding them to make the right decisions in difficult situations.
• Empathy : A hero’s ability to understand and share the feelings of others can motivate their actions and help them connect with those they aim to assist.
• Altruism : Heroes are driven to do good for the sake of others, without seeking personal gain or recognition.
• Responsibility : A strong sense of duty and commitment to fulfilling promises can characterize heroes in their pursuit of justice and the greater good.

The Heroic Spectrum: Types of Heroes

Having explored the origins of heroism, it becomes clear that heroes have been part of human culture for millennia. As societies evolved, so did their understanding of what constitutes a hero and the roles they play in various narratives:

The Classic Hero

The Classic Hero represents courage, strength, and honor. They often embark on a journey, filled with challenges and growth, to fulfill a noble purpose. Examples of classic heroes include:

• King Arthur

The Warrior

A skilled and courageous fighter who protects their people from external threats. They are often depicted as skilled fighters, such as:

• William Wallace — Braveheart

The Trickster

Clever and cunning individuals who use their intellect to outwit opponents and overcome obstacles. Notable examples are:

• Loki — Norse mythology
• Anansi — West African folklore
• Hermes — Greek mythology

The Chosen One

A figure believed to be destined or prophesied to save their people or achieve great things. Examples include:

• Frodo Baggins — Lord of the Rings trilogy
• Harry Potter — J.K. Rowling’s novels

The Tragic Hero

Characters who possess noble qualities but are ultimately doomed due to their inherent flaws or external forces beyond their control. Examples include:

• Oedipus Rex — Greek tragedy
• Hamlet — William Shakespeare’s play
• Darth Vader — the Star Wars saga

The Romantic Hero

The Romantic Hero is driven by emotions, intuition, and personal values. They are often characterized by their introspective and imaginative nature. Examples include:

• Mr. Darcy — Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
• Heathcliff — Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights

The Antihero

The Antihero is a complex protagonist who may possess some traits of a hero but typically lacks traditional heroic qualities, such as idealism or morality. Examples of antiheroes are:

• Tony Soprano — The Sopranos
• Walter White — Breaking Bad
• Don Draper — Mad Men

The Modern Hero

The Modern Hero challenges traditional heroic ideals and may display a sense of disillusionment, vulnerability, or self-awareness. Notable modern heroes include:

• Katniss Everdeen — The Hunger Games
• Iron Man — Marvel Comics
• Black Panther — Marvel Comics

The Significance of Archetypes

These archetypes serve as enduring models for understanding heroism across cultures and time periods. They showcase a range of abilities and attributes that define heroes — courage, intelligence, selflessness — while also highlighting the complexities of these characters through their triumphs and downfalls.

They also enable us to appreciate the diverse ways in which heroism can manifest across different cultures and time periods.

These archetypal heroes provide a basis for comparison when examining modern examples such as superheroes or everyday individuals who perform acts of heroism.

In everyday language, the term “hero” is often used to describe someone who displays the common hero traits. However, not every person that possesses these characteristics necessarily qualifies as a true hero in the literary or mythological sense.

To better understand this concept, it is essential to differentiate between the various ways the word “hero” is employed.

Historically, the term has its roots in ancient Greek mythology and literature, where a hero was considered a semi-divine figure that accomplished extraordinary feats or possessed supernatural powers. These individuals often had a unique connection to the gods, setting them apart from ordinary mortals. An example of this type of hero is Odysseus in The Odyssey .

In modern literature and storytelling, the definition of a hero has expanded to encompass a broader range of characters. These include:

Recognizing these distinctions in the usage of “hero” is essential to understand the complex nature of heroism and the various ways it can manifest in both the fictional and real world.

Heroes In Religious Traditions

In religious traditions, a hero is commonly defined as an individual of great strength, courage, or ability, admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities.

Divine Heroes

Divine heroes hold a special place in the pantheon of heroes across various religious traditions. These extraordinary figures often possess supernatural powers, divine lineage, or are chosen by deities to perform miraculous deeds or deliver crucial messages to humanity.

Examples of divine heroes can be found in numerous mythologies and sacred texts, such as:

• Jesus Christ  — In Christianity, Jesus is the Son of God and the central figure of the religion, embodying love, compassion, and sacrifice.
• Prophet Muhammad  — In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad is considered the last and greatest prophet sent by God, exemplifying piety, humility, and courage.
• Rama and Krishna  — In Hinduism, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna are considered incarnations of the supreme god Vishnu, representing duty, devotion, and divine love.

Through their awe-inspiring actions and unwavering faith, these divine heroes have inspired countless generations with their tales of courage, devotion, and self-sacrifice.

Legendary Heroes

In addition to divine heroes, legendary heroes occupy a significant role in religious traditions, embodying human virtues and representing cultural values.

While not necessarily possessing divine lineage or supernatural powers, these figures exhibit exceptional bravery, wisdom, or skill and serve as models of ideal behavior or moral guidance for adherents.

Examples of such legendary heroes include:

• Moses  — In Judaism, Moses is revered as a prophet who liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and received the Ten Commandments from God.
• Arjuna  — In Hinduism, Arjuna is a central figure in the epic Mahabharata, demonstrating loyalty, courage, and wisdom in both warfare and spiritual pursuits.
• Guanyin  — In Buddhism, Guanyin is a bodhisattva associated with compassion, often depicted as a gentle, spiritually powerful figure aiding those in need.

Philosophical Perspectives On Heroism

In light of the significance of heroes in religious traditions, it is equally important to examine philosophical perspectives on heroism.

Heroes Can Be Ordinary People

One interesting statistic that conveys a deeper meaning for the audience is that, according to a study by Franco, Blau, and Zimbardo (2011), approximately 20% of people have engaged in an act of heroism at some point in their lives.

This finding highlights the idea that heroes are not just mythical figures or extraordinary individuals but rather can be found among ordinary people.

Philosophers’ Points of View

Philosophers have long debated the qualities and attributes that define the essence of a hero. Some common characteristics identified include:

• Courage : Heroes often display great bravery in the face of adversity or danger.
• Selflessness : A true hero acts for the benefit of others and is willing to sacrifice their own well-being for the greater good.
• Moral integrity : Heroes uphold high ethical standards and strive to do what is right even when it is difficult or unpopular.
• Resilience : Heroes are able to recover from setbacks and continue pursuing their goals despite obstacles.

Plato, one of the most influential philosophers in Western thought, believed that heroes possessed extraordinary wisdom and courage .

In his work, Republic , he argued that the ideal hero would be a philosopher-king, who combines intellectual prowess with moral fortitude. This idea suggests that true heroism cannot be achieved without strong ethical foundation and a commitment to seeking truth and justice.

Friedrich Nietzsche

In contrast, the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche challenged traditional notions of heroism in his work, Thus Spoke Zarathustra. He introduced the concept of the “ Übermensch ” or “overman,” a figure that transcends conventional morality and embraces individual willpower and self-actualization.

For Nietzsche, a hero is someone who creates their own values and resists the influence of societal expectations.

Heroism in Existentialism

Another perspective on heroism can be found in the existentialist movement, which emphasizes the importance of individual choice and personal responsibility in defining one’s existence.

Jean-Paul Sartre, a prominent existentialist philosopher, argued that human beings are free to make their own decisions and must bear the consequences of their actions. In this context, a hero is someone who:

• Courageously confronts the absurdity of life.
• Strives to create meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.

A True Hero Exhibits Altruism and Self-Sacrifice

Contemporary discussions of heroism often focus on the roles of self-sacrifice and altruism. Philosopher Peter Singer, for example, highlights the importance of considering the needs and interests of others, even at the expense of one’s own well-being.

This line of thought challenges conventional ideas of heroism that prioritize physical strength and individual achievement, suggesting that a true hero may be someone who works tirelessly for the greater good , often without any acknowledgment or reward.

The Role Of Heroes In Society And Culture

Throughout history, heroes have emerged from various backgrounds and domains, influencing the values and beliefs held by communities worldwide. These iconic figures may be real or fictional, but their impact on society is undeniable.

This section will explore the multifaceted role heroes play in society and culture by examining four key aspects :

Inspiration and Aspiration

Heroes often serve as sources of inspiration for others. Their acts of bravery, selflessness, and dedication to a cause can ignite a spark in people’s hearts, motivating them to follow in their footsteps. Many individuals are driven to make a difference in the world or their communities, seeking to emulate the values and qualities of their heroes.

Furthermore, heroes can impact society by establishing new benchmarks for achievements and aspirations.

Heroes serve as powerful educational tools that teach essential life lessons through storytelling. Narratives featuring heroic figures can impart wisdom about honesty, perseverance, sacrifice, humility, and other crucial moral values.

Preservation of Cultural Identity

Heroes are essential to human culture, as they serve as role models, symbols of hope, and agents of change.

Heroes contribute to preserving cultural heritage by embodying the characteristics that define a particular community or nation. As a result, they foster unity among people who share common aspirations and ideals.

Social Change

Many heroes throughout history have sparked social change by challenging oppressive systems or advocating for marginalized groups. Their actions often lead to political transformations that promote justice and equality.

The presence of heroes within society and culture is thus both timeless and universal; they provide a framework for understanding human nature while offering guidance on navigating life’s complexities successfully.

Psychological Aspects Of Heroic Behavior

The psychological aspects of heroic behavior can be examined through various lenses, including:

• Personality traits
• Situational factors
• Cognitive processes

However, it is essential to consider the situational context in which these behaviors occur; often, ordinary people display extraordinary acts of heroism under extreme circumstances.

Furthermore, understanding the cognitive processes behind heroic actions can provide insight into how individuals perceive and respond to situations that demand self-sacrifice and bravery.

One approach to examining the psychological aspects of heroic behavior is through an analysis of personality traits. Heroes often exhibit a strong sense of moral conviction that guides their actions even in challenging situations.

They may also possess high levels of emotional intelligence, allowing them to empathize with others’ suffering and respond compassionately to those in need. Additionally, heroes are typically resilient individuals who can endure physical discomfort or emotional pain without succumbing to despair or fear.

Situational Factors

Situational factors also play a crucial role in shaping heroic behavior. For example, perceived threats can elicit protective instincts from bystanders who might otherwise remain passive observers.

The presence of others during an emergency can likewise influence an individual’s decision to intervene; group dynamics may either facilitate or hinder acts of heroism depending on factors such as social norms and group cohesion.

Time pressure is another important situational variable that can affect the likelihood of heroic action; when faced with urgent circumstances requiring immediate intervention, individuals may be more likely to act impulsively rather than deliberating over potential risks and consequences.

Cognitive Processes

Cognitive processes underlying heroic behavior are another important area for investigation.

For instance, some researchers propose that heroes possess a unique cognitive schema or mental framework that allows them to perceive and interpret situations in ways that promote altruistic action.

This perspective suggests that, rather than being driven solely by personality traits or situational factors, heroic behavior may also be shaped by individuals’ cognitive processing of information about their environment.

Women as Heroes: Breaking Stereotypes

Culminating from the exploration of heroes’ roles in society and culture, it becomes apparent that women have been underrepresented in this sphere. However, recently, there has been a shift in focus towards celebrating female heroes who challenge traditional gender norms and break stereotypes.

Female heroes are diverse and multifaceted, ranging from powerful icons, such as Joan of Arc, who led her nation to victory, to everyday women who stand up against oppression and injustice. These women demonstrate extraordinary courage, strength, and resilience, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

The table above highlights just a few examples of remarkable women who have defied societal expectations and emerged as true heroes.

Through their actions and accomplishments, they have not only demonstrated that heroism transcends gender boundaries but also challenged long-held beliefs about women’s capabilities. By doing so, they have paved the way for future generations of female leaders, scientists, activists, and pioneers.

Acknowledging these trailblazing women serves as an important reminder that heroism is not exclusive to any particular gender or group. Recognizing their contributions enables society to foster an environment where individuals are encouraged to pursue their passions without being constrained by limiting stereotypes.

Moreover, celebrating these female heroes sends a powerful message of inspiration and empowerment to young girls around the world: no one should be denied the opportunity to become a hero based on their gender or any other arbitrary distinction.

Anti-Heroes and the Dark Side of Heroism

Heroism is an ideal that has been celebrated and explored in various forms of media, but anti-heroes offer a unique perspective on the concept.

Examining the dark side of heroism is an important way to gain an understanding of the complexities behind being a hero.

Anti-Heroes

Unlike traditional heroes, anti-heroes possess morally gray qualities that blur the line between hero and villain. This complexity makes them fascinating and relatable characters for audiences. These characters exhibit morally ambiguous qualities, making it difficult for audiences to categorize them as entirely good or evil.

Some well-known examples of anti-heroes include:

• Travis Bickle from Taxi Driver
• Severus Snape from the Harry Potter series, whose past actions and motives remain enigmatic until the end.
• Tony Soprano from The Sopranos , a mob boss who struggles with inner conflict and personal relationships.

While they may not possess conventional heroic attributes such as unwavering courage or moral superiority, anti-heroes can still evoke sympathy from audiences due to their relatable struggles and internal conflicts.

This deviation from the archetypal hero ultimately serves to explore the darker side of human nature and broadens the spectrum of what constitutes a heroic figure in contemporary storytelling.

Dark Side Of Heroism

Anti-heroes often serve as vehicles for exploring the dark side of heroism, revealing the complexities and nuances of human morality. They can act as cautionary tales , highlighting the potential dangers of:

• The belief that the ends justify the means

The table below shows a comparison between the idealized hero and anti-hero:

By incorporating anti-heroes into their narratives, storytellers can create thought-provoking and challenging works that prompt audiences to reflect on their own moral compass and the nature of heroism.

Heroes In The Digital Age: From Video Games To Social Media

Like a fish out of water, the concept of a hero has evolved and adapted to the digital age. As technology continues to advance at breakneck speeds, so too does the notion of heroism.

In this digital era, heroes can be found in various forms:

Video Game Protagonists

• Lara Croft ( Tomb Raider ) :  A strong and intelligent archaeologist who embarks on thrilling adventures to uncover lost artifacts and unravel ancient mysteries.
• Master Chief ( Halo ): A super-soldier clad in advanced armor who fights to defend humanity against aliens and other threats.
• Aloy ( Horizon Zero Dawn ): A resourceful and determined young woman who seeks the truth about her past and the world around her in a post-apocalyptic setting.

Social Media Influencers

Online communities.

• Subreddits:  Dedicated forums on Reddit where users can discuss a wide range of topics and seek advice from like-minded individuals.
• Facebook Groups:  Communities on Facebook that are centered around shared interests or support for specific issues, such as mental health or parenting.
• Gaming Clans and Guilds:  Groups of players in online games who work together to complete in-game objectives and foster camaraderie among members.

Just as traditional heroes were revered for their bravery and selflessness in times past, contemporary figures are celebrated for their ability to spread hope through innovative means. The evolution of heroism into the digital sphere highlights how even seemingly ordinary individuals can make extraordinary contributions when given access to the right tools and platforms.

Thus, it is evident that the concept of a hero remains alive and well in the digital age, albeit in new and exciting forms.

The Evolution Of Superheroes In Pop Culture

Throughout the years, superheroes have experienced significant transformations in popular culture.

• Early 20th C entury: Heroes have extraordinary abilities and moral compasses

In the early 20th century, these heroes were often portrayed as infallible human beings with extraordinary abilities and moral compasses. Their purpose was to inspire hope during times of hardship and to model virtuous behavior for readers.

One example is the creation of Superman by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938, which marked the beginning of a new era in American comic books. The character’s immense strength, invulnerability, and unwavering commitment to justice set the stage for future superheroes.

• Mid-20th Century : Heroes have more relatable everyday issues

As society evolved, so did its perception of heroes. By the mid-20th century, superheroes began to display more complex personalities and flaws that mirrored real-life challenges faced by everyday people.

The Marvel Comics revolution of the 1960s introduced characters such as Spider-Man and Iron Man , who struggled with personal issues like guilt, insecurity, or addiction while still striving to protect others from harm. This shift towards relatable characters allowed readers to identify with their favorite heroes on a deeper level than ever before.

• Contemporary Era : Diversification of superhero representation

The contemporary era has seen an even greater diversification of superhero representation in popular culture. With narratives extending beyond comic books into film and television series, creators have embraced diverse backgrounds and character traits that resonate with modern-day audiences.

Heroes such as Black Panther challenge traditional Western-centric views of heroism by incorporating cultural elements from non-European societies into their stories.

Additionally, increased visibility for female heroes like Wonder Woman or LGBTQ+ characters such as Batwoman contributes to a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be heroic in today’s world.

As societal values continue to evolve and expand, so too will the depiction of superheroes within pop culture reflect these changes for generations to come.

Real-Life Heroes: Everyday Acts Of Courage

Real-life heroes often emerge from ordinary circumstances, exhibiting extraordinary courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. These individuals possess an unwavering determination to stand up for what is right and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Emergency Service Personnel

Everyday acts of heroism can manifest in various forms, such as rescuing someone from danger, advocating for social justice, or providing support during difficult times. Such actions may not always be grand or highly visible, but they are essential in maintaining the moral fabric of society.

One notable example of real-life heroism is that of emergency service personnel who risk their lives daily to ensure the safety and well-being of others:

• Firefighters brave treacherous conditions to extinguish fires and save those trapped within burning buildings.
• Paramedics and other medical professionals provide life-saving care in high-pressure situations, often under challenging circumstances.
• Law enforcement officers maintain order by enforcing laws and protecting citizens from harm.

Each act exemplifies a profound sense of duty towards fellow human beings that transcends personal fears or hesitations.

Celebrity Heroes

Moreover, everyday heroes can also be found in individuals who dedicate their lives to addressing social issues and improving living conditions for marginalized populations.

• Activists tirelessly campaign against injustices such as discrimination, poverty, or environmental degradation despite facing significant opposition or even personal danger.
• Volunteers contribute their time and resources to assist vulnerable communities during natural disasters or humanitarian crises.

Celebrity heroes are individuals who have gained fame and influence and use their platforms to promote social good. They often bring attention to important causes, advocate for policy changes, and support various charitable organizations. Some examples of celebrity heroes are:

• Angelina Jolie — A prominent humanitarian who advocates for refugees and is a UN Goodwill Ambassador.
• Leonardo DiCaprio — Uses his platform to fight climate change and protect the environment through his foundation.
• Oprah Winfrey — Supports various causes, including education and disaster relief efforts, through her foundation.

The Impact Of Heroes On Personal Growth And Identity Formation

Heroes as role models.

Heroes play a significant role in shaping an individual’s personal growth and identity formation. From childhood to adulthood, individuals often look up to heroes, both fictional and real-life, as role models and sources of inspiration.

These heroes can teach valuable lessons, provide moral guidance, and motivate people to make positive changes in their lives.

How Heroes Promote Positive Self-Development

One way heroes influence personal growth is by exemplifying virtues such as courage, resilience, and empathy. When individuals see their heroes overcoming obstacles or demonstrating compassion in challenging situations, they are more likely to adopt these qualities for themselves.

This can result in positive self-development and the formation of a strong moral compass.

How Heroes Can Strengthen a Sense of Belonging

Heroes can also contribute to identity formation by offering representation to different groups in society.

For instance, a young person from a marginalized background might find encouragement in the story of a hero who shares their experiences and triumphs against adversity. Recognizing oneself in a hero’s journey can strengthen a sense of belonging and pride in one’s identity.

Heroes Present a Clear Vision of the Person Someone Strives to Become

Furthermore, heroes can serve as catalysts for personal change and growth by presenting a clear vision of the person someone strives to become. By setting goals to emulate the qualities of a hero, individuals embark on their personal journey of self-improvement, driving them to overcome limitations and unlock new potential.

The Dangers of Hero Worship and Idolization

While heroes and champions can provide inspiration and motivation, there are inherent dangers to excessive hero worship and idolization.

Unrealistic Expectations

When people idolize heroes, they often place them on a pedestal, attributing unrealistic, perfect qualities to them. This can lead to disappointment when the hero’s human flaws are revealed.

Additionally, these fantastical expectations can negatively impact self-esteem as individuals compare themselves to the unattainable model they have created.

Lack of Critical Thinking

By blindly following heroes or role models, people may disregard critical thinking and reasoning, instead of considering their heroes’ views as the ultimate truth. This can result in adopting misaligned beliefs and values, or making poor decisions, solely based on the supposed infallibility of the idolized figure.

Loss of Identity

Extreme hero worship may lead to a loss of individuality as people strive to mimic their heroes’ actions, speech, or behaviors. Instead of developing their unique qualities and perspectives, individuals risk losing their authenticity and personal growth by trying to become their chosen hero.

Understanding these hazards can help individuals maintain a balanced perspective and avoid negative consequences.

The Hero’s Journey: A Timeless Narrative Structure

The Hero’s Journey is a widely recognized narrative pattern that can be found in many stories from various cultures and time periods. This structure effectively captures the essence of a hero’s experience and serves as a guide for many authors and filmmakers.

Joseph Campbell, a renowned American mythologist and writer, introduced the concept of the Hero’s Journey in his influential book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces.

Rooted in the study of mythology, Campbell observed that numerous myths from different cultures appeared to share certain storytelling elements. He identified these common elements and articulated them in a universal framework, which he referred to as the “ Monomyth .”

The Monomyth consists of a series of stages that the hero encounters throughout their journey: Departure , Initiation , and Return . In each of these phases, the hero encounters several key stages, as outlined below:

• The Call to Adventure: The hero is confronted with a challenge or problem that prompts them to embark on a journey.
• Refusal of the Call : Initially, the hero may hesitate or resist the call due to fear or uncertainty.
• Meeting the Mentor : The hero encounters a wise figure who provides guidance and support for the journey ahead.
• Crossing the Threshold: The hero leaves their ordinary world and enters the realm of the adventure.
• Trials and Tribulations: As the hero faces various challenges, they learn valuable lessons and acquire new skills.
• The Road Back: After achieving their goal or completing their quest, the hero begins to return home.
• The Resurrection: The hero faces a final challenge or test, often resulting in their transformation or rebirth.
• Return with the Elixir: The hero returns to their ordinary world, equipped with newfound knowledge or power, ready to share their gifts with others.

These stages of the Hero’s Journey can be seen in many classic works of literature, such as The Odyssey , as well as in modern popular culture, including films like The Lord of the Rings and The Matrix .

Pros and Cons of Being a Hero

Being a hero is often seen as a noble endeavor, with individuals stepping up to protect and serve others in their time of need. Although heroism can take various forms and come with numerous benefits, there can also be drawbacks.

Further explanation of the table is shown below:

• Altruism : Heroes experience a sense of satisfaction and happiness from helping others, a feeling that often extends beyond their own needs and interests.
• Recognition : Carrying out heroic acts can lead to public recognition and respect, as others acknowledge the hero’s achievements and sacrifices.
• Inspiration : Heroes can inspire others to pursue similar paths, leading to a ripple effect of positive change across communities and societies.
• Legacy : Acts of heroism may positively impact the lives of many and can leave a lasting legacy that will be remembered by future generations.
• Risk : Heroes often put their own lives at risk in the course of their actions, with potentially severe consequences for both themselves and their loved ones.
• Psychological Toll : Performing acts of heroism can be mentally and emotionally demanding, leading to stress and burnout in some cases.
• Responsibility : Heroes may feel a sense of obligation to continually perform heroic acts, leading to increased pressures and expectations from others.
• Costs : Pursuing a path of heroism can come with personal costs, such as missed opportunities, financial burdens, or strained relationships.

Deconstructing The Hero: Reimagining Heroism For The Future

In order to effectively reimagine heroism for the future, it is essential to first deconstruct the traditional concept of a hero. While heroes have played a vital role in societies across the globe, it’s time to rethink their attributes and characteristics to align with the changing world.

Attributes of the Future Hero

Modern perceptions of heroism emphasize the importance of adaptability and inclusivity. Heroes of the future will come from diverse backgrounds, portraying a wide range of experiences and perspectives. This broad approach to heroism allows for a richer understanding of what it means to be a champion, as well as a closer examination of the many facets that make up the essence of a true hero.

• Adaptability:  The future hero is versatile and open to change, with an ability to adapt in order to overcome challenges and obstacles.
• Inclusivity:  The new hero welcomes diversity and emphasizes the importance of representation, acknowledging the varied viewpoints of other individuals.
• Empathy:  Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in reimagining heroism, as this allows the hero to form meaningful connections and foster understanding with others.

From Physical Strength to Everyday Acts of Heroism

Another crucial aspect of reimagining heroism for the future is shifting the focus away from physical strength and exceptional abilities. While these traits remain valuable, it is essential to recognize that true heroism often lies in everyday acts of kindness, resilience, and courage.

This emphasis on “ordinary heroes” allows for a broader understanding of how champions impact the lives of those around them and strive for a better world.

By reimagining heroism for the future, society can foster a more inclusive definition of champions, one that recognizes the efforts of individuals from various backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives.

This new understanding of heroism contributes to a world where more people feel inspired and empowered to become heroes in their own right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hero always successful in their endeavors.

No, heroes can fail in their attempts to help or save others. Heroes are not infallible, and they are just as susceptible to failure as anyone else. In fact, the possibility of failure is often a significant risk that heroes take on when they attempt to help or save others.

However, it is their unwavering courage and determination, even in the face of potential failure, that distinguishes them as heroes.

Ultimately, it is not the outcome of their actions that defines them, but rather their willingness to try, their perseverance in the face of adversity, and their commitment to doing what is right.

Can animals be considered heroes?

Yes, animals can be considered heroes when they display courage, loyalty, and a willingness to protect or save humans or other animals in dangerous situations.

Do heroes always work alone?

No, heroes can work alone or as part of a team, depending on the situation at hand. While some heroic acts may require a solitary approach, many others call for collaboration and teamwork.

In fact, some of the most impactful heroic actions in history have been achieved through the combined efforts of multiple individuals working towards a shared objective.

How can we learn from the examples of heroes?

We can learn from heroes by analyzing their actions, motives, and personal traits, and applying these characteristics to our own lives to become more courageous, selfless, and resilient in the face of adversity.

Throughout the article, we explored the essence of a hero by examining its definition and various examples. We discussed a number of essential elements that heroes tend to share:

• Moral compass : Heroes operate with a strong sense of right and wrong, making decisions that align with their principles.
• Perseverance : They face challenges with determination and courage, often overcoming significant obstacles in pursuit of their goals.
• Sacrifice : Heroes often prioritize the well-being of others, even when it requires significant personal cost.
• Role models : They serve as inspiring figures for others, exemplifying qualities of leadership, resilience, and compassion.

The essence of a true champion is not solely found in extraordinary powers or divine connections, but also in their resilience, determination, and moral fiber — elements that transcend the superficial aspects of the term and strike at the core of what it truly means to be a hero.

Ultimately, the hero — in all its forms and variations — remains a powerful tool for exploring the human condition, promoting empathy, and encouraging us to be the best versions of ourselves.

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Jessa Claire

• Scriptwriting

What is a Hero — Definition, Examples & Types Explained

• Types of Characters in a Story
• Protagonist
• Deuteragonist
• Tragic Hero
• Tritagonist
• Anti-Villain
• Foil Character
• Common Character Types
• Character Archetypes
• Types of Villains
• Femme Fatale
• Mad Scientist
• Damsel in Distress
• What is Characterization
• Characterization Examples in Movies
• Characterization of Anton Chigurh Explained
• Direct Characterization
• Indirect Characterization
• Round vs. Flat Character
• Round Character
• Flat Character
• Static vs Dynamic Characters
• What is a Static Character
• Dynamic Character

W hat is a hero? Heroism is a concept we’re taught at a very young age. But is the definition we’re taught really accurate? Today, we’re going to explore the hero definition in a new light by looking at examples in psychology, film, and literature. By the end, you’ll know what makes a hero, and how to make your own characters heroic. 

Watch: What is a Protagonist

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Hero Meaning Explained

Let's define hero.

When I say “hero,” who do you think of? Hercules? Superman? A role model? Heroes play an important role in our everyday lives because they serve as a beacon of excellence that we strive towards.

HERO DEFINITION

What is a hero.

A  hero  is a person who demonstrates an utmost commitment to their morals, no matter the obstacle or consequence. Heroes are venerated in stories for possessing extraordinary abilities, such as exceptional strength, intelligence, or fortitude. This character is not to be confused with a superhero. A superhero often shares the same moral and charitable qualities but they also have special powers or abilities.

Classic Hero Traits:

• An unwavering dedication to their morals
• A priority to uphold the greater good
• Courage in the face of adversity

The hero is almost always the protagonist of a story. But a protagonist is not always a hero. Those two terms get confused a lot and while there is overlap, they are distinct categories.

But in many ways, we believe that heroes are beyond reach; idealized to an unattainable degree – but that doesn’t have to be the case. This next video from Academy of Ideas examines the psychology of heroism, and explains how you can be your own heroic character.

The Psychology of Heroism by Academy of Ideas

This is not a messianic figure – it’s simply a person who defends their moralistic beliefs vigorously. Of course, those moralistic beliefs have to be rooted in charity; the utilitarian notion of the greater good outweighing the greater evil need not apply.

QUALITIES OF A HERO IN LIT.

Hero examples in literature.

Literature is defined simply as a written work; so as you can guess, there have been a lot of heroes throughout the history of literature.

Let’s take a look at a few:

Gilgamesh from The Epic of Gilgamesh  

By contemporary standards, Gilgamesh is more of a superhero, but considering that he’s regarded as the first hero in literature, we had to include him here. Gilgamesh demonstrates exceptional persistence against overwhelming odds to become a hero of feat.

Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird  

Atticus demonstrates extraordinary resolve by defending Tom Robinson against bigotry.

Nancy Drew from the Nancy Drew series 

Nancy represents an outlet for women seeking heroes in a market saturated with male heroes. Nancy displays great intelligence in her quest to unmask various villains .

This next video from Ted-Ed breaks down  Joseph Campbell’s  The Hero’s Journey by looking at famous literature examples of heroes.

What Makes a Hero? by Ted-Ed

The Hero’s Journey may serve as a blueprint for effective storytelling, but it’s not the only way writers characterize heroes. Remember, heroes are simply individuals who defend their morals in spite of potential consequences. 

Now, let’s look at some hero examples in film and television.

Heroic Characters Explained

Heroes in movies & television.

Big-budget cinema – at least nowadays – is a medium for the sensational, which means that its heroes are often “super” in nature. It’s worth noting that superheroes are different from heroes. 

Heroes demonstrate extraordinary ability within the realm of reality, superheroes demonstrate extraordinary ability outside that realm.

So, we’re going to stick to regular heroes in this section. Here are a few hero examples in film/television (some of who are rooted in plays/literature):

Juror #8 in 12 Angry Men : Juror #8 is a classic example because he defends his morals with absolute conviction, despite limited support from his peers. For more, check out our 12 Angry Men script teardown .

Rick Blaine in Casablanca : Rick represents a sub-type that we regard as the dormant hero. This character rejects heroism due to a traumatic defeat. However, they are later called back into action, and overcomes their greatest foe to emerge victorious. For more, check out our Casablanca script teardown .

Indiana Jones in the Indiana Jones movies: Indiana Jones is the perfect example of a classic Hollywood hero. Indy doesn’t possess superheroic abilities, but he does possess extraordinary intelligence and courage.

Now here’s a thought exercise for you: is Thanos the hero – or more appropriately the superhero – 0f Avengers: Infinity War ? Let’s examine that question with a video essay! Check it out below.

Avengers: Infinity War Script Breakdown  •   Subscribe on YouTube

I’d argue that Thanos displays a sense of heroism by defending his moral beliefs. However, his call is a perverse one: rooted in utilitarian justice rather than charity. 

Related Posts

• What is an Archetype →
• What is an Antagonist →
• What is a Character Arc →

What is an anti-hero?

Now that we know what we call an individual who defends their moralistic beliefs no matter the consequence, let’s explore the question: what is an anti-hero? Anti-heroes are incredibly popular in today’s media scene. In our next article, we break down how characters like Walter White and the Underground Man rejected the hero’s call and became anti-heroes instead.

Up Next: Anti-Hero Explained →

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Heroes — Examples Of Heroism

Examples of Heroism

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What is the Hero Archetype? Definition and Examples

by Fija Callaghan

Look, what’s that in the sky? A bird? A plane? No, it’s the hero archetype !! One of the most recognizable character archetypes in literature and film , heroes have captured our imagination for centuries. But it can, at times, be challenging to incorporate this archetype into your writing without turning it into a cliché.

It may surprise you to find that not all hero archetypes are cut from the same cloth. They can come from different walks of life and have different attitudes towards those around them. But , there are a few distinctive features that bind all heroes together. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this leading character archetype, with some helpful examples from literature.

What is a hero archetype?

The hero archetype is a character who acts as a force for the greater good, defending those weaker than themselves to the point of self sacrifice. They’re usually elevated above those around them in some way, whether that’s through a superpower or magical advantage, or through an exemplary personal trait such as great courage or compassion.

Traditionally, heroes are the protagonist of a story; the narrator follows them along their journey as the hero overcomes adversaries and protects those they love. Some of these protagonists set out to be heroes from the beginning, while others come to their hero-ness gradually as they’re shaped by their experiences.

We’ll look at the different forms a literary hero can take later in this article.

Characteristics of the hero archetype

Heroes can look very different across different genres and types of stories; however, there are a few key hero archetype characteristics that you’ll see recurring in this distinctive literary figure.

1. They’re loyal

Heroes are fiercely loyal to those they care about. For some, this might be a country, political system, or community; for others, it might only be one or two close family members or friends. Whether a hero’s personal battleground is large or small, they’re prepared to ride or die for the people they love.

For some hero archetypes, such as everyman heroes or anti-heroes (and we’ll look at both of those in more detail below), this loyalty can be the thing that pushes them from the role of survivor to true hero.

2. They have a code of honor

Heroes have a determined sense of what’s right and wrong. This isn’t a universal standard—what’s “wrong” can vary from one character to another. But within their own personal worldview, a hero archetype will have a clear line that they know they cannot cross.

For instance, maybe your hero is comfortable stealing from baddies, but they refuse to steal from those who are most in need. Or maybe your hero does some bad things in pursuit of justice, but they decided long ago that they won’t ever lie. Hero archetypes know exactly how far they’re willing to go, and what they need to do to hold themselves back from that line.

3. They have a particular strength that sets them apart

You can usually tell the hero of a story by their distinctive “superpower.” In many cases, this is an actual superpower or magical gift. They might be chosen or prophesied for a particular purpose, or come from a proud lineage of warriors.

However, your hero’s superpower could be something more benign: extraordinary courage, quick-thinking street skills, or a gift for making people laugh. This strength will, in some way, become essential on their hero’s journey and help them overcome obstacles along the way.

4. They stand up to injustice

One of the most admirable qualities of the hero archetype, heroes are always ready to stand up against perceived wrongdoing—whether this is a multinational conglomerate dumping toxic waste into a pristine ecosystem, or a bully on a playground. This can get them into trouble if they start a fight before they’re ready for it.

Sometimes, characters become heroes gradually over time. In this case, they might start out as too afraid to stand up to the injustices they see around them, but find the strength to do so later on. This can be an effective way to show your reader how much your character has grown.

5. They’re driven by something greater than themselves

A hero isn’t out for self-gain—even if they start off thinking they are. Their true goal will be about something more.

Maybe they’re driven by a need to repair a fundamentally corrupt society, or maybe they’re trying to protect a younger sibling from an outside enemy. It’s this ability to put the well-being of others before themselves—consciously or unconsciously—that makes them a hero.

Types of hero archetypes

Even though all true hero archetypes will share certain attributes, they can look quite different on the page depending on where they come from and where they ultimately end up in a story. Here are the specific types of hero archetype you’ll meet in literature and film.

The classical hero

The classical hero is a natural-born leader. They may not be the strongest or the fastest kid on the block, but they have a charismatic je ne sais quoi that makes people trust them and want to follow them. These heroes will usually have a strong moral compass and exhibit noble qualities such as courage, integrity, and compassion.

Often these heroes are of noble birth, but they can also just be well-loved people who always try to do the right thing. King Arthur is an example of this hero archetype.

The everyman hero

The everyman hero is a regular Joe (or Jane) who is thrown into extraordinary circumstances. They’re not born into great wealth or privilege, and they’re not gifted with magical abilities or extranatural intelligence. They look and act like anyone you might see walking down the street—any one of us—and yet, through their hero’s journey , they find they have the capacity for heroic deeds within them.

Readers particularly love everyman heroes because they show us that in times of crisis, we can rise to be heroes too. Simon Lewis from The Mortal Instruments is an example of an everyman hero archetype.

The epic or super hero

The epic hero or superhero archetype may have exploded onto cinema screens in recent years, but their roots run all the way back to the classical heroes of ancient mythology. They have extraordinary abilities and often find themselves pitted against equally extraordinary adversaries.

Unlike the everyman archetypal hero, these hero archetypes are completely removed from our own way of living. They allow readers a glimpse into another world, knowing that no matter how much danger the hero finds themselves in, everything will be okay in the end. Achilles from Greek mythology and Superman from DC comics are examples of epic heroes.

The anti-hero

The anti-hero archetype is a character who doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional hero in some way. Often, anti-heroes have personality traits more commonly associated with a villain , but they use those traits for good instead of evil.

An anti-hero might be broody, sarcastic, or short-tempered; they might lie or cheat their way through conflicts in pursuit of their goal. Anti-heroes are relatable and endearing, and readers love seeing their dynamic character arcs as they learn to fight for what’s right. Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and Batman from DC comics are examples of anti-hero archetypes.

The tragic hero

The tragic hero archetype is a hero that’s held back or brought down by a deep personal flaw. This might be something like excessive pride, impatience, ambition, or fear. The hero’s tragic flaw keeps them from realizing their full potential and, in many cases, leads to their downfall.

Sometimes, a tragic hero can overcome their flaw through the choices they make on their journey. For example, Dickens’ character Ebeneezer Scrooge has one deep and fatal flaw: his avarice. The story makes it clear what will happen to him if he allows this flaw to devour him. Ultimately, however, he’s able to grow and dodge that fate in favor of a happy ending. Shakespeare’s Macbeth is another example of the tragic hero archetype.

Examples of hero archetype characters from literature

Let’s look at some popular examples of heroes from our favorite stories.

Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the main character of the series by the same name, is a pretty classic hero figure. While he has certain everyman qualities that make him relatable to young readers, he’s also the focus of a magical prophecy and gifted with the bravery, nobility, and leadership skills that make him a hero others are willing to live and die for.

Despite his underdog upbringing in the ordinary world, Harry uses his heroism to inspire others and make his world a better place.

Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman encapsulates many of the classic superhero trappings, with one key difference: she’s a dame. In 1941, when she first appeared in the pages of DC comics, this was a pretty big deal. Superheroes weren’t a new thing at this point, but Wonder Woman taught young girls that they could be powerful, too.

Inspired by classical mythology, this hero archetype brought epic-scale battles to living color in a way that was approachable and relatable to modern readers.

Odysseus was the epic hero in the mythological cycle surrounding The Odyssey , The Iliad , and other works of the time. To this day, readers still love the range of retellings about Odysseus and his friends overcoming obstacles, conquering beasties, and finding their way home.

His stories formed the basis of much of the adventure genre, and you can find echoes of this hero archetype all across literature.

Tristran Thorn

The protagonist of Neil Gaiman’s Stardust and the film of the same name is a less obvious hero than some of these others; he grows from a curious and lovesick boy into a brave warrior and legend of his people.

His journey has elements in common with that of both Harry Potter and King Arthur; he’s born unknowingly into an extraordinary heritage, goes on a quest to secure something precious, and comes into his heroic nature along the way.

The hero archetype represents the best that we can be

Heroes are some of our favorite characters, in real life and in the world of fiction. Classical storytelling has often revolved around heroic figures because they show the reader or the listener that anyone is capable of these heroic traits—even if you’re not the hidden son of a king or born into magical powers. Now, you can use this story archetype to help inspire others.

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The monsters that made me: Growing up disabled, all of my heroes were villains

Horror movies challenged my relationship with myself

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Share All sharing options for: The monsters that made me: Growing up disabled, all of my heroes were villains

Every monster needs an origin story. Here’s mine.

I was born with a rare condition — radioulnar synostosis — which restricts the movement of my forearms. I am unable to turn my hands over palms up, the way you might accept loose change or splash water on your face or land an uppercut. I have lived with this condition all my life, and yet it wasn’t until my late 20s that I started referring to myself as “disabled.”

This word carries immense baggage, and many of us within the wide spectrum of disability tend to minimize our experiences or, as in my case, suffer from feelings of impostor syndrome. Could be worse , I often tell myself. You don’t deserve to call yourself disabled .

Coming to terms with my disability took a long time, to not only accept my identity, but also to discard the lingering shame and stigma that coincide with being disabled. A major part of this reconciliation was thanks to an unlikely source of solace — horror films.

I’ve been a horror obsessive as long as I can remember, but I only recently figured out how to articulate why the genre resonates so strongly with me. On-screen depictions of deformed, disfigured killers and creatures serve as reflections of my own otherness. The phantasmagoric realm of horror, though dark and violent, provides an outlet for me to express the discomfort, frustration, and anxiety surrounding my corporeal limitations.

From a young age, I subconsciously related to monsters, madmen, and every combination thereof. Many even taught me to frame disability in a positive fashion. The archetypal antagonists from the golden age of horror cinema — the Wolfman, Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster — all underwent a transformation to be imbued with extraordinary, otherworldly gifts. Their differences were a source of power, inverting the traditional view of disability as a hindrance, a burden.

My attraction to horror began innocently enough. There were clamshell VHSes galore at my babysitter’s house, including all the Disney classics, many of which were plenty horrific, like the “Night on Bald Mountain” sequence in Fantasia . I carefully studied the imposing figure of Chernabog, the winged, devil-horned demon summoning lost souls from the underworld. To me, he seemed benevolent rather than evil, a counterpoint to the sparkling sunrise that banishes him back to the shadows, an essential element of natural balance.

Disney’s version of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” oddly lumped as a double feature with The Wind in the Willows , presented another kindred spirit — the Headless Horseman. Decked in black and adorned with a blood-red cape, clutching a saber in one hand and a flaming jack-o’-lantern in the other, the Headless Horseman, for me, came to represent the extreme limits of human endurance. A cannonball takes the ill-fated soldier’s head and still his body lingers, perseveres.

Another seminal gateway wasn’t even a horror film. On its surface, The Wizard of Oz is a saccharine Technicolor musical romp, but the dream world its characters inhabit is full of menace — maniacal flying monkeys, spear-wielding Winkie guards, and my favorite, the iconic Wicked Witch of the West. Despite her green flesh and pointy chin, I found her beautiful, alluring, and endlessly more compelling than the picture-perfect Glinda. Astride her broomstick, flinging fireballs, stalking Dorothy and her companions through Oz, the Wicked Witch became the reason I watched an old tape of The Wizard of Oz so many times that the reel snapped.

As she pointed toward the camera with her spindly fingers and sharp nails, I imagined the Wicked Witch was singling me out, inviting me into her world. There, everyone was different, from the Munchkins, notably played by a cast of dwarf actors, to the main trio of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion, who were all “defective” in their own ways, physically and mentally handicapped by the absence of some critical inner faculty. Why Dorothy was so desperate to return to the bleak, monochromatic reality of Depression-era Kansas was beyond me. I would have much preferred to stay in Oz.

By the time I finished elementary school, my tastes sharpened, and I craved harder, more acidic fare. My appetite had been steadily whet by a diet of gory comic books and yellowed Stephen King paperbacks. Cable television in the ’90s was also rife with kindertrauma-inducing spectacle. I was allowed to watch Are You Afraid of the Dark? and Goosebumps , since both were on kid-friendly channels. When left unsupervised, which was often as the child of a single mom who had to work multiple gigs, I could sneak episodes of Tales from the Crypt or X-Files . I knew there was a world of adult horror, and I wanted nothing more than to breach this forbidden zone.

Where to watch the movies mentioned in this piece

• Fantasia : Disney Plus
• Disney’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow : Disney Plus , as a part of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad 
• The Wizard of Oz : Max
• The Evil Dead : For digital rental or purchase on Amazon and Vudu
• The Brood : Max , Criterion Channel
• Castle Freak : Shudder, AMC Plus, and for free with ads on Tubi

I caught glimpses of it at the video rental store, where I was compulsively drawn to the horror section. I scanned the shelves, memorizing titles for future reference, studying the macabre cover art, scrutinizing the stills of sliced throats, hacked limbs, and oozing ectoplasm. Although I wasn’t allowed to take home anything rated R, I soon found loopholes that granted me access to films I was desperate to ingest.

Staying over at a friend’s house, we would wait until the grown-ups were asleep, then flip to HBO (a luxury we could not afford at my own home). It was there I first watched The Evil Dead , a personal landmark of my initiation into splatter flicks. My friend and I insisted we weren’t scared, as we cowered in our sleeping bags, squealing with perverse delight when the first possessed teenager stabbed her friend in the ankle with a pencil. We chattered throughout the movie to compensate for our obvious nerves, but by the time Ash Williams descended into the cellar searching for shotgun shells with a ravenous Deadite on the loose, the two of us had gone mute with fear.

Ash, armed with his trademark chainsaw, was clearly the hero (and himself destined to become an amputee in the sequel), but it was the Deadites who entranced me. When the demons seized control, the bodily degradation took effect. First, the teenagers’ eyes went white, and before long, their flesh wrinkled, turned sallow, decayed, bile and pus dripping from spontaneous lacerations. I had never witnessed anything so utterly bloodsoaked, resplendent in viscera, a film that relished in the ways a body can be corrupted.

Bodies are frightfully fragile, and we are all one small step away from an accident or illness that can permanently debilitate. Few filmmakers understand the body’s capacity for biological horror more than David Cronenberg , whose oeuvre introduced me to a world where disability is infused with latent eroticism and regenerative potential.

In high school, I got a job at the same video rental store I prowled as a kid. Now I had the freedom to take home whatever I pleased. The older guys who managed the shop would recommend titles to test my limits — Salò , Cannibal Holocaust , Irreversible . Cocksure teenager that I was, enduring “the most fucked up movie ever made” became my solemn quest. But disturbing or violent as they may be, few video nasties were capable of truly scaring me. Knowing I was a devotee of both horror and sci-fi, one of the clerks suggested I check out Cronenberg, so I took a chance on The Brood .

I was deeply unsettled by the story of an estranged couple fighting over custody of their daughter. What frighted me wasn’t the deformed, dwarflike progeny — birthed by the ex-wife and telekinetically driven to brutally murder anyone who crossed her. The broodlings were devoted to their mother, as was I, and would do anything to protect her. What shook me was Cronenberg’s metaphorical treatment of divorce, especially after watching my own parents’ messy split. The rupturing of a family resulting in physiological consequences illustrated the link between body and mind, a relationship of which I was all too aware, having dealt with depression as long as I could remember.

For many people with disabilities, physical and mental anguish are synonymous, feeding into one another. Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and alienation frequently accompany disability. More often than not, disability is chronic, permanent, and insoluble. It can be mitigated, people can adapt, but full-blown cures are elusive. My disability is one such case. I may have accepted this reality, come to terms with my fate, but the journey has not been without frustration, anger, and despair — the monster’s currency.

This explains in part why monsters act as they do. Pain begets pain. Violence begets violence. Fear begets fear. As such, the monster embodies the way we perpetuate trauma, wherein the victim becomes the aggressor. This is why we sympathize with Frankenstein’s monster or the Wolfman, because we understand that they were not born to be monsters — they were made that way by forces beyond their control.

Which is precisely why I cannot totally fault my all-time favorite Lovecraftian abomination, the titular Castle Freak from Stuart Gordon’s low-budget opus, another film I chanced upon at the video rental store. The freak is imprisoned from childhood by his deranged mother, routinely tortured until his face and body are a tapestry of grotesque wounds and scars. He escapes the confines of his dungeon and spies on the American family who has moved into his home, taking a special liking to the couple’s blind daughter.

While the freak wastes no time eviscerating unlucky victims, the lecherous, alcoholic father, played by the incomparable Jeffrey Combs, is no less redeemable. The freak’s feral nature is the byproduct of a lifetime’s abuse. The father, by contrast, has no excuse. Watching this film for the first time, I empathized with the freak and thought of my innate freakishness and the times I’ve lashed out or been cruel. What was my excuse?

Even as the maimed, distorted bodies of creatures like the Castle Freak or the Brood or the Deadites or the Wicked Witch mirrored real-world disabilities and offered me an escape, a safe environment where it was appropriate to root for the villain, I realized that I didn’t want to hurt people, to injure others as I’d been, whether physically or mentally. And more than anything, I was determined not to use my disability as a scapegoat, to behave like a monster and blame it on the way I was born.

Strange as it sounds, I learned to take ownership of my mistakes and embrace my faults through horror films, to forgo hiding behind a mask like the boogeymen in slasher movies. Horror demands that we not avert our gaze from “abnormal” bodies. It challenges our prejudices, our preconceptions. These are films that celebrate disfigurement and deformity instead of shunning it. I reject the notion that horror merely co-opts disability as a cheap scare tactic. When I watch a scary movie, I do not see exploitation — I see exaltation, the disabled not as demonic but as divine.

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Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs

This essay is about the distinctive traits of French Bulldogs and why they are cherished pets. It highlights their affectionate and friendly nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. French Bulldogs are known for their low exercise needs, adaptability to various living environments, and intelligence, which makes training them easier. However, they require attention to their health due to respiratory issues and a tendency toward obesity. The essay also discusses their social and expressive personalities, grooming needs, and diet requirements. Overall, it underscores the breed’s unique charm and the importance of responsible ownership for their well-being.

How it works

French Bulldogs, affectionately labeled as “Frenchies,” have witnessed a surge in popularity in recent times, and the reasons behind this phenomenon are readily apparent. These canines exhibit a distinctive visage and a captivating demeanor that endears them to enthusiasts of the canine world. From their unique bat-like ears to their compact, robust physique, French Bulldogs possess an allure that is as irresistible as it is enduring.

A standout characteristic of French Bulldogs is their profoundly affectionate and amiable disposition. Renowned for their penchant for human interaction and their fervent desire to be at the center of attention, these dogs promise an unwavering and affectionate companionship to their owners.

They forge profound connections with their human counterparts and often shadow their every move, epitomizing the quintessential loyal companion. Their affable demeanor extends beyond familial ties; French Bulldogs typically harmonize harmoniously with children and other pets, rendering them an optimal choice for households seeking harmony and camaraderie.

Another captivating attribute of French Bulldogs lies in their modest exercise requisites. In stark contrast to high-energy breeds that demand constant physical stimulation, Frenchies contentedly engage in brief, invigorating excursions and playful interludes. Ill-suited for protracted bouts of exertion, they thrive in urban settings or domiciles bereft of expansive outdoor spaces. Nonetheless, it is imperative to ensure that they partake in adequate physical activity to safeguard their well-being and stave off the specter of obesity, a prevalent concern due to their robust physique. Moderation is paramount, and regular engagement in low-impact activities is instrumental in preserving their vigor and vitality.

French Bulldogs are also distinguished by their acumen and adaptability. Possessing an innate facility for assimilating new knowledge, they respond favorably to training methodologies characterized by consistency and positive reinforcement. While they may occasionally evince a streak of obstinacy, their eagerness to gratify their owners invariably eclipses any semblance of recalcitrance. This inherent intelligence and adaptability endow French Bulldogs with the versatility to thrive in diverse settings and lifestyles. Whether ensconced amidst the bustle of urban life or ensconced within the serenity of suburban environs, Frenchies demonstrate an uncanny ability to acclimate and flourish, provided they receive the requisite affection and care.

Despite their myriad commendable attributes, French Bulldogs are beset by a litany of health concerns necessitating due diligence on the part of prospective owners. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) configuration predisposes them to respiratory ailments, exacerbated by sweltering climes or strenuous physical exertion. Vigilant monitoring of their respiratory function and judicious avoidance of extreme temperatures are indispensable precautions. Additionally, their prominent, erect ears are susceptible to infections, mandating regular vigilance and preventive measures. Adherence to responsible breeding practices and consistent veterinary oversight are indispensable for mitigating these health risks and ensuring the longevity and well-being of French Bulldogs.

Gregarious and affable, French Bulldogs revel in human company and typically exhibit sociability towards strangers following proper introductions. This sociability renders them ideal companions for convivial hosts or individuals frequently in the company of new acquaintances. Nevertheless, their profound attachment to their owners renders them ill at ease when left to their own devices for protracted intervals. The specter of separation anxiety looms large, necessitating measures to assuage their solitude through companionship or engaging diversions in the owner’s absence.

Yet another endearing quality of French Bulldogs manifests in their idiosyncratic and expressive demeanor. Their countenance and comportment often evoke anthropomorphic emotions, eliciting both amusement and endearment. This expressive capacity contributes substantially to their appeal as pets, as they possess a singular mode of communication with their owners. Their vocalizations, comprising an array of grunts, snorts, and assorted utterances, further accentuate their charm and distinctive persona. French Bulldogs possess an uncanny knack for eliciting smiles from those in their midst, their amusing antics and endearing vocalizations serving as an endless fount of delight.

Regarding grooming, French Bulldogs entail relatively minimal maintenance. Their abbreviated coats necessitate scant brushing, though regular grooming aids in curbing shedding and preserving coat health. Particular attention should be directed towards the folds of their skin, especially around the visage, to forestall irritation and infections. Regular trimming of nails, cleaning of ears, and dental hygiene are likewise indispensable facets of maintaining their overall well-being and hygiene. While they eschew extensive grooming, consistent care is pivotal in ensuring the cleanliness and comfort of French Bulldogs.

In summation, French Bulldogs epitomize the epitome of endearing companionship, distinguished by their affectionate, astute, and adaptable nature. Their genial disposition and unpretentious exercise requirements render them eminently suitable for a plethora of residential contexts, from bustling urban hubs to tranquil suburban locales. While they are not immune to health vicissitudes, conscientious stewardship and regular veterinary surveillance can effectively forestall potential maladies and preserve their vitality and contentment. French Bulldogs transcend the realm of mere pets, seamlessly integrating into the fabric of familial life, imparting companionship, affection, and boundless amusement. Their singular personality traits and captivating demeanor continue to captivate the hearts of dog aficionados globally, endowing them with an enduring and ubiquitous appeal.

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Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs. (2024, May 21). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/characteristics-and-personality-traits-of-french-bulldogs/

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/characteristics-and-personality-traits-of-french-bulldogs/ [Accessed: 22 May. 2024]

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/characteristics-and-personality-traits-of-french-bulldogs/ [Accessed: 22-May-2024]

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