Saturday, January 31, 2009

   My hero: an off into the sunset look at a debate now- and ever after (the nature and definition of heroism)
*to be fair- this is one of my references, since I don't feel like doing a works cited*

http://www.mikementzer.com/heroism.html

"Heroism: thoughts and definition
In a world subject to change- where all is transient and permanence applies only to the moment, little is granted the title of greatness. Yet amidst the chaos and the strife stand aloft our heroes. They are the consummate examples of right- defenders of all that is good and just, indefatigable champions of the best humanity has to offer. They are our paradigms of excellence, in morals and deeds. They are among us- though not of our ilk, or so it would seem. That assumption though, and the social expectancy for heroes and heroic behavior it perpetuates begins the long and complex discourse that is the western interpretation of the hero. It is this exact discourse that begs the eternal question: what is it that breeds the synergistic blend of unassuaged morality and valor in deed? What makes or defines heroism, and for that matter- heroes? What, or who, is it that sets the sterling standard by which we measure a hero? And more importantly yet- what, or who are deserving of the title?
Identifying the hero is essential to ascertain the nature of heroism, and its applicability to the individual. While it is commonly understood that heroic acts are preformed by extraordinary individuals, and so recognized by society or others as being heroic, such conditions are not a prerequisite for the applicability of the word. Furthermore, it is important to note that heroism is not limited to any set of physical actions, not to physical strength or courage as is often portrayed. This understanding of heroism allows for the widespread use of the term, that is, beyond merely our spandex-clad comic book characters and a few historic notables. Rather it makes the term available to the common public- more to the point: to all those who fit a set of moral (rather than circumstantial) qualifications. It is in this way- and by this framework for the understanding of heroism that heroes can be seen as defined by and indicative of a society's values, and their embodiment of those values. For the sake of clarification, this must be understood as being inclusive of both a physical heroism, and a mental/intellectual heroism, though not exclusively, and often encompassing any degree of the synergy of the two. It is from this, the model of these remarkable few that the “every day hero” takes his cues. Following that, it is from a strongly held conviction in personal values (reflected or shared by society) that the “hero” (of literary/ political, and popular or other manifestations of culture) takes his."
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