hero

Hero is a term used in literature, film, and everyday speech to denote a central character who undertakes significant actions and often embodies qualities such as courage, self-sacrifice, or moral integrity.

In older mythologies, heroes are portrayed as extraordinary figures, sometimes divine or semi-divine, rewarded for feats that establish order or protect communities. The word derives from the Greek hērōs, with related senses of protector, defender, or warrior, and has evolved to refer more broadly to the protagonist of a story or to someone admired for brave behavior.

In narrative traditions, heroes are not limited to flawless virtue; they may be complex, flawed, or even tragic. The concept also spans various subgenres, including epic heroes, tragic heroes, and superheroes, each shaping ideas of heroism in distinct ways. The feminine form heroine is often used, though gendered terms are increasingly supplemented by neutral terms such as protagonist or hero.

Examples across cultures include mythic figures such as Heracles and Beowulf, legendary kings like King Arthur, and modern protagonists such as Batman or Superman. Real-life heroes include individuals who risk themselves to save others, respond to emergencies, or advocate for vulnerable communities.

The term hero can be applied aspirationally to describe acts of bravery or moral leadership, while discussions of heroism often explore the boundaries between courage, duty, and how stories influence cultural ideals.