answersLogoWhite

0

Stith Thompson, an American scholar of folklore, rewrote the Aarne-Thompson classification system for folktales. In his work, the hero is usually simply the protagonist of the story, and is not required to meet specific criteria.

Nicholas Thompson, senior editor at The New Yorker, argues that, in American historical tradition, certain traits are usually associated with heroism:

* Bravery: heroes must be brave beyond the garden variety. * Nobility: heroes must act towards goals we all approve of. * Ingenuity: they must be able to think out of the box. * Success: they must achieve what was not achieved before.

He proceeds to argue that the definition of heroism has been subject to inflation, and states that, in modern times, a fifth trait is often associated with heroism:

* Victimhood: whether or not any of the above traits apply, whether or not they succeeded in overcoming it, people often attribute heroism to those who have faced great adversity.

Then there's a Mr. Thompson in the television series Heroes, who might attribute paranormal traits to its subjects, and a Mr. Thompson, Head of State in Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged, who might find heroes more trouble than they're worth.

It would help knowing what Thompson you're referring to.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What are Narcissus's heroic traits?

He wasn't a hero.


What are some personality traits for a hero in melodrama?

A hero would have positive traits like courage and kindness and fairness. They might also have a tragic flaw that they must fight against in order to be a hero.


What is a tragic heros flaw according to Aristotle?

According to Aristotle, a tragic hero's flaw is known as hamartia, which is often translated as a "tragic flaw" or mistake in judgment. This flaw leads to the hero's downfall and is typically related to their own character traits or actions.


What qualities make Hercules a good hero what qualities do not fit the hero picture?

Hercules has heroic traits, such as his strength and heart. His unheroic traits are his arrogance and short temper.


Did Odysseus epic hero traits help him get home safely or were there other traits more important?

weeenie


What makes a tragic hero a round character?

A tragic hero is a person who has traits that are both good and bad.


What are some traits of a renaissance hero?

Bold , Leadership , Ruling , Confident


What traits made Aphrodite a hero?

Aphrodite was not a hero. She was a goddess kidnapped by Hades, and as such did nothing to help or end her condition. Stupid cow.


What are bellerphons physical traits?

He's a hero. I think that sums it up nicely.


What is Ida b wells character traits and civic values that make her a hero?

Determination


In Part II of the Odyssey Odysseus exhibits the traits of an epic hero by doing what?

stringing a bow


What does the tragic hero experience according to Aristotle?

The hero experiences self-recognition.