Ms. Fischer
AP Literature
18 September 2013
Heroes
In everyday life there may be someone that you may look up to or consider a hero. In most stories you read about epic heroes and all the challenges they face. We often consider them as something that we want to become. A real hero is someone who faces everyday challenges bravely and lives a smile despite problems and shortcomings. A hero is someone who has bravery, confidence, determination, dedication, endurance, perseverance, valor, selflessness, sacrifice, and humility. Firefighters, policemen, lifeguards, soldiers, doctors or even more simple man who risk their lives every day to help us with their courage and valor are true heroes. Soldiers fight wars on the boarders to keep the civilians safe. Firefighters and policemen fight against criminals and control deadly situations by risking their lives. Ordinary men and women who fight incurable diseases like cancer, AIDS, mental and physical disabilities are also heroes because they have the strength to face life with a strong approach. Liberty Amdahl is an example of a hero. Liberty fought against cancer and faced life with a strong approach. She kept a smile on her face and had a positive attitude even if she was in pain. Even though she didn’t make it she is a hero in everybody’s eyes. She made a huge impact to everyone in Flandreau and everybody that knew her. Liberty is a hero. An epic hero also projects an image of a real life hero. An epic hero excels in skill, strength, and courage. He succeeds in war and adventure. He values honor and glory and usually have a guide. He could battle demons or monsters. An epic hero is generous to his followers but ruthless to enemies. He is a man of action, accepts challenges and sometimes invites problems. He might sometimes makes rash decisions and takes unnecessary risks. He may meets monsters and temptations or encounters women who tempt him. An epic hero descends into darkness which is often the underworld, and achieves his goals.
Beowulf is an example of an epic hero. He is pictured as a warrior who fights for his country but has a simple life. He has to undertake a long journey filled with challenges in his way and has to fight various battles to accomplish his goal. He always takes up distinctive tasks which no one else ever dares to. He comes across Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon that he fights with his endurance and valor and eventually reaches his destiny with a confident heart. He has qualities such has courage, honesty, and willingness to sacrifice.
A monster
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