Hero 101: 10 Types of Heroes
- Max
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Not all heroes wear capes. Why? Because they don’t have to!
When you hear the word hero, you might picture a tall, powerful figure. But guess what? Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and some even make us question their heroism. So the next time you’re writing a story and thinking about the “perfect” hero, try to shake off that immediate image.
Here are 10 kinds of heroes in literature:
The Classic Hero
Prime Example: Hercules
Also known as the Perfect Hero, the Classic Hero has it all. Smart, kind, good-looking, powerful, compassionate, courageous, righteous—you name it! This is the image that pops up when we think of the word hero. Often equipped with great skills for fighting, wielding weapons, and strategizing battles, the Classic Hero uses his power only for good. He was popular in Ancient Greek stories and plays, but today, he’s seen as a bit “one-dimensional” because he’s rarely portrayed as a relatable human.
The Superhero
Prime Example: Superman
The Superhero is a type of Classic Hero with a twist. As the name implies, he has superhuman abilities, either born with them or gaining them later in life. The Superhero often comes with a weakness related to his powers, making him even more interesting.
The Epic Hero
Prime Example: Beowulf
This hero is literally “the stuff of legend.” Representing entire cultures, the Epic Hero embodies the people of that culture. His journey takes place over a long period, proving his worthiness. Known for fighting a wide variety of villains, sometimes monsters from his culture, the Epic Hero also faces internal or personal struggles throughout his adventures.
The Tragic Hero
Prime Example: Oedipus
The Tragic Hero, also known as the Flawed Hero, is not necessarily a protagonist, but rather a character that teaches something to the audience or takes them on an emotional journey. Flawed and vulnerable, his flaw eventually leads to his demise.
The Antihero
Prime Example: Deadpool
The Antihero is a tricky one. He’s a hero that isn’t very heroic, with questionable morals and terrible actions. However, everything he does ends up being for a greater cause. The success of the Antihero relies on the reader’s sympathy and attachment to him.
The Un-Hero
Prime Example: Inspector Gadget
The oddest kind of hero, the Un-Hero is a hero that tries to be good but often fails. He has good intentions but always seems to be at the wrong place and the wrong time. He often sets out to right the wrong or bring about justice but unfortunately ends up making things worse. However, the Un-Hero does get his moment at some point in the story, whether through perseverance or the assistance of other heroes.
The Willing Hero
Prime Example: Sherlock Holmes
The Willing Hero is a protagonist that goes looking for conflict. He loves the challenge that comes with facing dangers, enjoys solving mysteries and conflicts, and is motivated by obstacles that he faces. In other words, he doesn’t like being bored.
The Unwilling Hero
Prime Example: Frodo Baggins
If there’s a Willing Hero, there’s also an Unwilling Hero. The Unwilling Hero, like the Everyman, becomes one out of circumstance and not skill. Unlike the Everyman, however, the Unwilling Hero hesitates at the beginning but eventually gives in and goes on the journey. Despite the circumstances of his becoming a hero, however, the Unwilling Hero eventually proves himself worthy.
The Everyman
Prime Example: Arthur Dent
This type of hero, as the name suggests, is pretty “common” compared to our other heroes. What makes him a hero is the fact that he still manages to rise to the top despite his common-ness. Becoming a hero because of circumstance, not skill, the Everyman is the most relatable, often shown as flawed and vulnerable. To an extent, he’s also an Unwilling Hero. Out of all the heroes, the Everyman is the most relatable because he is often shown as flawed and vulnerable, compared to other heroes.
The Chosen One
Prime Example: Harry Potter
The Chosen One is a hero that is meant for heroism. The Chosen One may not seem much at first but immediately shows potential for greatness once put to the test. Once he is confronted with his power, he is also faced with the choice to use it for good or for evil.
Loved learning about heroes? Explore more of our heroic features below! If you're a writer on a quest for a professional editor, your search ends here. Send your manuscript to themanuscripteditor.com for a complimentary 800-word sample. Let us help you unleash the hero within your story!
Sources:
תגובות