herói

Herói is a term used to describe a person admired for courage, noble qualities, or outstanding achievements. In Portuguese, it denotes individuals who confront danger or uphold moral values, often risking their own well-being to help others. The feminine form is heroína, and the plural is heróis (masculine) and heroínas (feminine). The word derives from Latin hero, from Greek hērōs, meaning a defender or protector, and has long been used to name figures of legendary or extraordinary ability.

In literature and mythology, heroes undertake quests, endure trials, and confront adversaries to achieve a significant good. They may be demigods, champions of a people, or ordinary individuals transformed by circumstance. The hero archetype encompasses diverse variants, including epic heroes, tragic heroes, and folk heroes, as well as contemporary versions who may display moral complexity or imperfect virtue. The concept is closely linked to heroism, courage, and self-sacrifice. An anti-hero subverts some heroic expectations by lacking conventional noble qualities.

In real life, the term is used to acknowledge bravery, resilience, or altruism, such as firefighters, rescuers, or people who act to protect others in danger. It can also apply to notable achievements in science, culture, or social progress, where individuals are celebrated for positive impact rather than mythical feats.

The study of heroes intersects with folklore, literature, ethics, and mythology. The hero’s journey, a narrative pattern described in discussions of myth and storytelling, outlines a path of departure, initiation, and return with a boon.