Heroism

What does it take to be a hero? What is heroic? Who is a hero? Although it is not often considered to be among Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “essential” readings, “Heroism,” is a thought provoking and inspiring piece, worthy of its place on the bookshelves of Emerson enthusiasts. In this brief essay, Emerson, in his bold and yet carefully chosen tone attempts to define the essence of heroes. Keeping in line with his doctrine of self-reliance, Emerson believes that every person has the innate ability to become a hero. Heroic traits are not limited to a select few, but instead, are only exhibited by those who accept themselves and endeavor to maintain self-trust and consistency in their actions. Emerson writes, “The characteristic of a genuine heroism is its persistency. All men have wandering impulses, fits and starts of generosity. But when you have resolved to be great, abide by yourself, and do not weakly try to reconcile yourself with the world. The heroic cannot be the common, nor the common the heroic.”