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Lizabeth Thompson

\English II [ 11 January 2013 ]
Heroes
Since time began, people have been creating strong figures to look up to. These figures are known as heroes. The presentation, expectations and qualities of traditional heroes are different than those of modern day heroes, yet all are created in similar ways.
Traditionally, past societies and cultures presented their heroes as infallible and set apart from society. Heroes were always expected to help people in distress and in every circumstance conquer their enemy. They were to complete their missions without error and the choices they had to make would be the best for everyone. In the past heroes were better than humans in every way. Heroes were stronger, faster, better looking, more intelligent and indestructible. They also felt that they could perfect the world. Good examples of traditional heroes can be found in Greek mythology. The gods were always watching over the world, but lived on Mount Olympus, separate from society. They helped people in need and were known to be beautiful, cunning and could not be defeated by any mere mortals. Ultimately, traditional heroes were flawless, but as society changed and progressed, so did the heroes.
Modern day society views heroes as superhuman, yet relatable and able to fit into society. These modern heroes are expected to uphold a strong moral code and under every circumstance at least make an attempt to save the endangered. While we always want them to win battles, society also accepts that heroes may make mistakes, become injured and even die while fighting for the cause they are defending. Still being seemingly perfect with their good looks, intelligence and power, these new heroes have vulnerabilities. They also feel a sense of disillusionment with the world. They gain this view from living in today’s society under alter egos. For example Superman uses the identity of Clark Kent, a mild mannered newspaper man, to be able to live a “normal” life. He is superhuman, yet his weakness is kryptonite. He also realizes he cannot create a perfect world. This is quite different than heroes from past societies. There are similar expectations of both types of heroes, but modernized heroes became flawed. We are able to relate to these less than perfect beings. It is quite inspiring to see such human-like heroes performing courageous acts. They give us the feeling that deep down we have as much power as they do. We just have to find it within ourselves and when we do, we will also become heroes.
Heroes are not just born being known as “heroes”. It takes time for one to actually be a true hero. Certainly, someone could be born with a courageous personality, but it is not until the courage is used for good that they become a hero. In every story the process of becoming a hero varies in some way but the concept is the same. The “hero to be” is usually faced with a situation that needs to be resolved and over time; they find their inner strength to help themselves and others. Westley shows the process of becoming a hero very well. He begins the story as an average farmhand, but over time, travels, learning many new things that help him to get Buttercup back. In the end he overcomes injury, is resurrected from death, and conquers many foes to save her. Knowing and accepting the great chance of death, he used his strength and intelligence to save Buttercup.
Although heroes have transformed from perfect god-like beings to flawed human-like figures, they are expected to do many of the same things and have similar journeys to becoming heroes. They all have the same trait of helping those in need, despite the danger they are faced with. Whether a god with extreme powers or a courageous human, a hero is a hero.