Heroism in Literature ESLCO8
Hero Comes from ancient Greek: ἥρως, hḗrōs Means “protector” or “defender”
“Classical” Heroes Usually demigods Usually have special powers / gifts Usually go on a quest / solve a great problem NOT NECESSARILY GOOD PEOPLE!
Heracles / Hercules
Perseus
Helen of Troy
Cultural Heroes Specific to a culture Usually either religious or historical Usually people who have accomplished great deeds Like “classical” heroes, they are not necessarily good people
Noah
Rostam and Sohrab
King Arthur
Guan Yu
Zeus
Isis
Michael Phelps
Modern Heroes Ordinary person, extraordinary circumstances While the hero may not have great power or intelligence, he/she makes up for it by being a good person Usually brave. Not always smart. But almost always good.
Harry Potter
Luke Skywalker
Sailor Moon
Edward Elric
Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman