Etymology of Hero
The word “hero” entered the English language through Latin and Old French, eventually deriving from the Greek word hērōs. Its earliest recorded usage in English dates back to the 14th century, as it made its way into Middle English from Old French.
In English literature, “hero” has been used since its introduction to refer to the central character of a narrative or a figure possessing exceptional qualities or valor. Over centuries, its usage has evolved to be used for heroic archetypes and cultural interpretations, becoming a fundamental term in the study of literary characters and themes.
Meanings of Hero
| Context | Literal Meaning |
| Mythology and Ancient Literature | A mythological or legendary figure with extraordinary abilities and valor. |
| Everyday Language | A person admired for their outstanding qualities, achievements, or noble qualities, such as a war hero or sports hero. |
| Literature and Storytelling | The main character or protagonist of a narrative who often demonstrates courage and moral integrity while overcoming challenges. |
| Generic or Archetypal Sense | An archetypal symbol representing the universal human quest for greatness, virtue, and accomplishment. |
Hero in Grammar
- Noun: “Hero” primarily functions as a noun, referring to a person admired for their exceptional qualities, achievements, or noble actions.
- Adjective: In some cases, “hero” can be used as an adjective to describe something as exceptionally admirable or heroic, as in “heroic deeds.”
- Verb: While not common in standard English, “hero” may be used as a verb in creative or informal writing to describe someone performing heroic actions, although this usage is not standard.
Definition of Hero
This literary device shows a character archetype often found in narratives, possessing qualities such as courage, moral fortitude, and the willingness to confront adversity for noble causes. Heroes typically serve as the central figures in a story and undergo significant personal growth or transformation throughout the narrative, embodying the values and ideals of the culture or society they represent. Their actions and choices often drive the plot and symbolize universal themes, making them pivotal elements in literature and storytelling.
Types of Hero
| Type | Definition | Example from Literature |
| Tragic hero | A character with noble qualities but a fatal flaw or error in judgment that leads to their downfall. | Oedipus in Oedipus Rex, Hamlet in Hamlet |
| Epic Hero | A larger-than-life character known for embarking on grand adventures and displaying extraordinary qualities. | Beowulf in “Beowulf,” Odysseus in “The Odyssey” |
| Antihero | A protagonist who lacks traditional heroic qualities, often behaving in morally ambiguous ways. | Walter White in “Breaking Bad,” Raskolnikov in Crime and Punishment |
| Byronic Hero | A complex and morally ambiguous character known for introspection and emotional depth, often with a dark or troubled past. | Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights, Mr. Rochester in Jane Eyre” |
| Everyman Hero | A relatable, ordinary character who becomes heroic through their actions or decisions. | Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings |
| Folk Hero | A hero who emerges from folklore or legends, often based on real historical figures or exaggerated, mythic personas. | Robin Hood in English folklore, Paul Bunyan in American folklore |
| Superhero | Heroes with supernatural or extraordinary powers, often found in comic books and modern popular culture. | Superman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman |
| Trickster | A clever and often mischievous character who uses wit and cunning to outsmart adversaries. | Loki in Norse mythology, Anansi in African folklore |
| Reluctant | A character who initially resists or is reluctant to take on a heroic role but eventually accepts their destiny or duty. | Harry Potter in the Harry Potter series |
| Mythic Hero | A hero from ancient myths and legends, often embodying cultural and religious symbolism. | Hercules in Greek mythology, Gilgamesh in Mesopotamian mythology |
| Romantic | A character known for their idealism, passion, and commitment to love or a cause. | Mr. Darcy in “Pride and Prejudice,” Cyrano de Bergerac |
| Cultural Hero | A hero who symbolizes the values, ideals, and identity of a specific culture or community. | King Arthur in Arthurian legends, Sun Wukong in Chinese mythology |
| Messianic | A character believed to be a savior or prophesied figure who will bring about significant change or salvation. | Jesus Christ in Christian theology, Neo in “The Matrix” |
| Action Hero | A hero known for their physical prowess, combat skills, and ability to handle dangerous situations. | James Bond in the James Bond series, Lara Croft in “Tomb Raider” |
| Classic Hero | A hero who embodies traditional heroic qualities like courage, honor, and selflessness. | King Arthur in Arthurian legends, Achilles in Greek mythology |
| Symbolic | A hero who represents abstract concepts or ideas, such as justice, freedom, or the human spirit. | Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” John Proctor in “The Crucible” |
| Silent Hero | A hero who speaks little or not at all but communicates heroism through actions and deeds. | The Stranger in The Stranger by Albert Camus, The Man With No Name in Sergio Leone’s Dollars Trilogy |
Common Examples of Hero
- First Responders: Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency personnel who risk their lives to protect and save others during crises and disasters.
- Medical Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers who provide critical care and treatment to patients, especially during times of health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Teachers: Educators who inspire and mentor students, shaping their futures and contributing to society’s intellectual development.
- Parents: Individuals who selflessly care for and nurture their children, often making sacrifices to ensure their well-being and upbringing.
- Community Volunteers: People who dedicate their time and effort to volunteer work, helping those in need, and contributing to the betterment of their communities.
- Good Samaritans: Individuals who step in to assist strangers in distress, whether it’s helping someone stranded on the roadside or intervening in a dangerous situation.
- Humanitarian Aid Workers: Those who work in war zones, disaster-stricken areas, and impoverished regions to provide essential aid and support to vulnerable populations.
- Environmental Activists: Advocates who work tirelessly to protect the environment, raise awareness about climate change, and promote sustainability.
- Social Activists: Those who champion social justice causes, fight against discrimination, and work to improve the lives of marginalized or oppressed groups.
- Military Service Members: Soldiers who serve their countries, often facing danger in combat zones, to protect national security and uphold freedom.
- Rescue Workers: Search and rescue teams, including lifeguards and mountain rescue teams, who save lives in perilous situations.
- Mentors and Coaches: Individuals who guide and inspire young athletes, artists, or professionals, helping them reach their full potential.
- Caregivers: People who provide compassionate care for the elderly, disabled, or terminally ill, often within their own families.
- Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Visionaries who create businesses, products, or technologies that improve lives and drive economic growth.
- Environmental Conservationists: Those dedicated to preserving wildlife and natural habitats, working to protect endangered species and ecosystems.
- Advocates for Mental Health: Individuals who raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and offer support to those struggling with mental health challenges.
These examples illustrate that heroes are not limited to fictional characters but exist all around us, making positive contributions to society and demonstrating admirable qualities in their everyday lives.
Suggested Readings
- Campbell, Joseph. The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press, 1949.
- Frye, Northrop. Anatomy of Criticism: Four Essays. Princeton University Press, 1957.
- Jung, Carl G. Man and His Symbols. Dell, 1964.
- Raglan, Lord. The Hero: A Study in Tradition, Myth, and Drama. Dover Publications, 1936.
- Rank, Otto. The Myth of the Birth of the Hero: A Psychological Exploration of Myth. Vintage, 1952.