Hero

By Brooke Dupuis

General Context

A hero can be most easily defined as a courageous, well admired person. In literature, many heroes are connected to tragedy. An article by Balázs Sánta explains that for many, the image of a hero is a physically fit action hero, meant to be idolized by others. However, there can also be a level of tragedy in heroes. Sánta states this is due to them experiencing unjust violence or sacrifice.

In literature, being a hero is about more than being courageous and well admired. Dominique Saint Malo explains that tragic heroes do not get happy endings, despite all their struggles. Hamlet is an example of a tragic hero in literature: he accomplished his goal, but he died in the process. By connecting literary heroes to tragedy and violence, one develops a better understanding of how the idea of a hero is handled in Gaines’s novel.

Connection to Novel

A Lesson Before Dying examines what a hero is in chapter twenty-four. Here, Grant asks Jefferson if he knows what a hero is. In Grant’s own words, “A hero is someone who does something for other people. He does something that other men don’t and can’t do.” This definition of a hero places an importance on sacrifice and commitment to others.

Grant is telling Jefferson all of this before his impending execution. If Jefferson does become a hero, it will happen after his death. His death would impact his entire community. There is a long history of Black figures in the Civil Rights movement that had to suffer to further their community. One example is Rosa Parks, whose arrest furthered the movement. A Lesson Before Dying conceptualizes a hero as a person committed to helping others despite the hardships they may face.