English 122 - the True Definition of a Hero

Christina A. Abdullah

Professor Paula Bishton

English 122

The True Definition of a Hero

        Heroes can be defined in many different ways. Society has deemed what attributes defines a true hero and these range from actions of bravery and courageousness they complete, to examples and standards they set with qualities they possess. Some see a hero as a person who saves someone from a dangerous situation. Others view heroes as those who lead us and have shown us the path to success. Others see a hero as someone who selflessly devotes himself or herself to a greater cause. Several of the passages read gave prime examples of true heroism. No matter what society deems as a hero, a hero is defined differently in each person’s eyes and anyone can truly be a hero.

        A hero defined by Merriam-Webster is noted as an illustrious warrior, or a person admired for their achievements and noble qualities, or someone who shows great courageousness (Merriam-Webster online). These are words deemed by society to what a hero is. In all actuality, anyone can be a hero. It does not take a humongous act of bravery or one person who has done a lot. Sometimes it just takes little acts of caring to define a hero.

        In the excerpt from Bodega Dreams, actions of one teacher affected student’s overall perception of school and atmosphere of learning. Mr. Blessington’s demeanor towards students gave the perception they were not worthy of being in school and they were never going to amount to anything. Mr. Tapia consistently tried to counter with telling students how they were very fortunate to be who they were and constantly trying to positively influence them. To the point he even put his integrity on the line by telling Sapo to lie because he knew no one was going to believe a student over a teacher. After all administration had not done anything about how Mr. Blessington had been treating students up to that point. Tapia’s advice to tell a lie, while putting both his and Sapo’s integrity in question, gave Sapo another chance to prove Mr. Blessington wrong. Unfortunately, it did not work to his advantage and he spiraled downward losing who he was inside. Without Tapia’s heroism though, he could have been lost in the justice system, with no hope at all, due to words and actions of someone who did not care.

        In the poem, Crazy Courage, heroism was seen in the form of having courage to stand out and be different. Society has set certain standards to which they deem as normal and acceptable. Anything outside of these standards is seen as taboo or unacceptable. Most people usually go along with the flow and avoid adversity. Most are not strong enough to go against the grain and show what they truly feel or believe in. Society has oppressed the fact of standing out and standing up for one’s belief. Michael’s courage was shown in the fact of him standing out to be who he really was or even just standing up for those who are not able to stand up for themselves. His heroism is something for society to take into account and mimic.