"So you want to be a hero kid? Well, whoopdie doo"

In a utopian society there would be no need for heroes. When problems arise that trouble the society, a hero is created or formed. The ‘hero’ possesses the necessary traits to deal with and conquer the problem at hand. Be it in ancient epic tales, such as The Odyssey, mid 20th Century iconic musicians, or present day figures, the idea of a hero is omnipresent. The one who flies in to save the day, the person always there to catch you before you plummet downwards, the human invincible to all, possessing qualities others deeply wish they attained- the hero. Heroes have existed for as long as time, there has always been the person who, against all odds, prevails and saves the city, world, damsel etc.

Often times the actions of a hero, out of context, would be viewed much differently. To many, soldiers are viewed as heroes, and rightfully so. When placed in the time and place, when and where hope is needed, soldiers are heroes. The thought of vulnerability and susceptibility fears nations, thus a solution is made. In idolizing the brave, sly, fearless, indestructible figure, the nation puts itself at ease. In almost immortalizing the humans, people will lull themselves into security because of the presence of heroes. Firefighters, police officers, and various other professions where, on a daily occurrence, heroism is exemplified, calm society. The logical fears such as fires, and crimes are, perhaps prematurely, cast away in thinking about the protection they are getting from the ‘Herculean’ citizens.

Heroines, though understates, are present in history as well. In a male-centric society, however, traits which would qualify a man as a hero, often casts a different shadow on women. Maya Angelou is a prime example of double standards in classifying heroes. Though brave, courageous, persevering and bold—traits that would certainly certify a man a hero--caused great debate regarding Angelou. She was seen as a black female who didn’t accept her place in a society dominated by white males. Heroines are less recollectable due to the fact that they are understated and undervalued due to societies biases.

Heroes create an unnecessary reliability. It’s clear in every movie, book, or TV show staring a male hero-be it Lois Lane, Princess Leia, or any other damsel in distress-they await the hero. There is no need to act with heroism when in no time, she will be saved and swept off her feet by the hero.

Brecht was astute in stating “unhappy the land that needs heroes.” When a hero, or heroine, is present there is no need nor urge to step up. Why become braver, fight harder, and persevere longer when society will turn to the immortalized figure for help and idolization regardless? There is no need to. In hyperbolizing traits every human wishes they had—bravery, mental and physical strength, courage, etc.—society is brought down. There never will be a perfect citizen, merely an exaggerated and embellished concept of a hero to which nobody can compare.