Joseph Campbell Definition Of A Hero

¨Hard times do not create heroes. It is during the hard times when the hero within us is revealed.¨ (Riley, Bob) In life, there are many different definitions of a hero. Anyone can be labeled as a hero depending on the source. A hero is someone who is admired or idealized for their courage, achievements and noble qualities, however, the definition of a hero can vary depending on the situation or person. A hero in the real world functions by persevering and sacrificing for the better. For instance, a real-life hero is a firefighter. They go out into dangerous fires to save the lives of thousands of people and animals. Joseph Campbell illustrates this when he says, ¨A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something better than oneself.¨(Joseph Campbell) Even though it may be a life-risking task, they still persevere to save lives and inspire everyone around them with their
A hero never gives up when times get rough or get timid when it is time to be brave. In this case, “A hero is not one that never falls. He is one that gets up, again and again, never losing sight of their dreams” (Anonymous) A real-life hero always perseveres and shows their strength by carrying on and sacrificing for the greater good. A hero does not follow the path of others and is unlike any other because of their achievements, abilities, or personal qualities. Jonathan Lockton Huie explains, “If you want to be heroic, do not emulate your heroes, learn from them. Heroes do not follow anyone, they set their own course.” (Jonathan Lockton Huie) The average hero is an ideal or role model under someone’s personal definition of heroic qualities. However, everyone’s hero has different characteristics that make them stand out. Unlike the average person, heroes take their own course, face challenges and act with courage which makes them stand out to resemble a