Definition Of A Hero: Aladdin

A hero is defined by eight significant traits: intelligence, strength, resilience, selflessness, compassion, charisma, reliability, and edification (Allison and Goethals “Our Definition of ‘Hero’”). Being as that is, a hero does not necessarily have to be depicted as a knight in shining armor, but can also be characterized as an everyday folksperson. Even though there is a large spectrum as to what determines a designated hero, Machiavellian characters such as Aladdin from “Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp” defy this definition. Aladdin uses his mischievous nature as a scapegoat for manipulating and deceiving the people around him. Andrew Lang, the editor of “Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp”, does an exquisite job of tricking readers
Regardless of the fact that Aladdin possesses this level of intelligence, he uses it to beguile the people around him. He utilizes the genie whenever possible to fortify his appearance and wealth in hopes of winning over the Princess. As soon as Aladdin gets an inkling that he has a chance of charming the Princess, he commands the genie to conjure up “‘a richly embroidered habit, a horse surpassing the Sultan’s, and twenty slaves…’” (Lang 5), all to compensate for what he lacks in integrity. This guise of power and riches is one of the sole reasons that Aladdin is not seen as a well-rounded role model. Sure the courageous Aladdin aims to save the Princess after she is kidnapped by the magician, but his intentions regarding sexual desire is what make this action so sinful. Aladdin demanded that the genie take him to the palace, and set him down under his wife’s window (Lang 7); he didn’t want to save her solely because he loved her, but because of his intimate desire for her. As cliché as it is to “be yourself”, individuality is indispensable when it comes to outlining the attributes of a true hero. Unfortunately, Aladdin does not fit this description and is, therefore, cannot be labeled as a