Defining Heroism - What Makes a True Hero Essay - 857 Words

Heroes, despite their extraneous characteristics, have very similar values to the people that follow them. This point of view can best be explained using three key points of focus. These points are as follows: The similarity of a higher guidance in times of need, the similarity of the code of honor that they live by, and the fact that no matter who the hero is, he or she is under pressure to be a successful role model. The similarity of higher guidance in times of need is the easiest and most direct of all the three factors. Most heroes, but not all, live their lives in allegiance to God or another worshiped figure. Take the story of Beowulf for example. Beowulf was without fear when he faced the monster known as Grendel. This†¦show more content†¦I believe the correct view on the subject is that no matter who you are, you are still God’s love and servant. This unites every class, as long as they chose to believe it. Another communal characteristic of heroes and those who follow them is the fact that everyone lives by a code of honor. Heroes live by a higher code of honor than those who follow them. For heroes, their actions must either all be in accordance with the rules set by their master, or greatly excel the expectations that are held for others. Going out of their way at every possible instance is considered mandatory. The main point of all of this is not that they actually do all these things, but that they proudly enjoy performing the tasks given to them. Everyday people are the same, just less intense. Everyone has a code of honor. Some have a higher level than others. One person may live by a code of honor consisting of no regulations at all. Another could live by the regulations that they can’t go against the bible, can’t break the law, and occasionally have to try to be nice to people. In another case, a person could see the minimum code of conduct in their life bei ng to live their life in the footsteps of God, obey all laws, and do every possible act of humanity and good will that they can. The point is that no matter who the subject is, be it hero or zero, everyone has a code of conduct that they chose to live byShow MoreRelatedJohn Milton s Paradise Lost985 Words   |  4 PagesJohn Milton’s Paradise Lost is a paradox of morality and character definitions. After reading multiple articles, the largest concerning topic was the hero status of an inherently evil character. The issue lies within defining what a hero is and is not in terms of epic poetry. John Milton’s refusal to clarify a hero shows this paradox he has created is a something that he meant to achieve. According to Mary Nyquist in The Father s Word/Satan s Wrath, â€Å"The text seems here not just to invite, butRead MoreOrdinary People: The Heroes Among Us Essay717 Words   |  3 Pagesthe status quo and modern definition of a true hero. For decades adolescent chi ldren around the world have been conditioned to mentally define the word hero as it relates to comic characters. Comic publications such as Marvel Comics and competitor D.C. Comics have created cape wielding, web casting, and morphing characters that often transpose the understanding of what makes a true hero. In addition to comics, television has played a part in defining a hero by shows such as; James Cameron’s productionRead MoreHeroic in Paradise Lost by John Lost Essay1637 Words   |  7 Pagesnamely in the debate surrounding which character is the true hero of the poem. 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There is a difference though because heroes have the enormous responsibility. They are always being signaled, and they are always expected to do the right thing. Heroes are many times forced to test their character which leads them to realize their potentialRead MoreThe Titular Character Of William Shakespeare s Macbeth1444 Words   |  6 Pagestitular character in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth is a typical hero who undergoes a series of nasty situations, and gradually loses his humanity in the process. Although he begins the play as a traditional hero, he most certainly does not retain that title towards the end. Over the course of the play, the reader can see Macbeth gradually decline in his mental and emotional state. From the beginning, he is portrayed as a traditional hero, with his courage on the battlefield and his honor at all timesRead MoreOdysseus as an Epic Hero859 Words   |  4 PagesA true epic hero has many very defining characteristics. Usually you will find this hero to be the ‘alpha male. With an almost super hero personality, epic heroes are extremely above an average human being. This character must be of noble birth, and as a result, this gives them great respect and many resources. There is a deep reverence for the gods and this helps the hero through tough times. An epic hero is bravery than the other characters. They are willing to take bigger risks and reap greaterRead MoreMy Father : A Hero Is A Hero1002 Words   |  5 Pagesaspire to be, but easily recognize in others. Wait, how do we define what makes a hero, a hero? A hero is one who is kind, courageous, sma rt, determined and selfless. They often do what is better for the greater good and not themselves. This is seen in both Greek and Modern heroes, whether it is cutting off Medusa’s head or defeating the Riddler, they show these qualities in one way or another. We also see these qualities in parents, true everyday heroes. While they may not have super strength or the abilityRead MoreEpic of Gilgamesh: a Hero Essay1615 Words   |  7 PagesPeople have been fascinated by tales of heroism for centuries. In ancient Mesopotamia, heroes give people hope and comfort, and fill them with strength. Ancient Mesopotamia is filled with tales of heroes- mighty warriors battling monsters, men ready to risk life and limb to save their true love or to fight for their nation. Still, there is a great difficulty that lies in defining what a hero truly is. Strength alone does not make a hero; nor does intelligence. Moreover, the Epic of Gilgamesh truly