Hero? The American Heritage Dictionary Essay

The positive value that most people place on a character's ability to face their demons is traditionally what defines a "hero." What defines a "tragic hero" is when facing those demons is too much for the protagonist to handle, which is the case in this play. But this lack of unwavering strength and courage is what makes the character of Oedipus seem human, and therefore relatable to the audience. If his reaction to the truth had shown nothing but strength, he would seem more like a cardboard cut-out than a human being.

A hero is more noble and more human when he must overcome his flaws and life's adversities. This may be why literary heroes have appealed to readers across many different cultures and over many different eras in history; because they represent the deepest and most respected ideals of human behavior, without extending too far beyond the constraints of believability.The journeys taken by the heroes essentially become our own journeys, while the challenges and adversities they face and overcome inspire confidence that we may be capable of such noble achievements ourselves.

In a world filled with the continuous transformation and revolution of ideas, heroism has adhered to a specific and unchanging formula from the beginning of time to the present. This has been reflected not only in literary terms, but in societal terms as well. Therefore it appears the definition of a hero has always been, and will continue to be, rooted in the ability to overcome life's greatest adversities while remaining true to your beliefs.

References

Segal, C. Oedipus Tyrannus: Tragic Heroism and the Limits of Knowledge, New York, 1993

Sophocles, Dawe, R.D. (ed.) Sophocles: Oedipus Rex, Cambridge University Press,….....