Essays · Chapter
Heroism explained
This chapter defines heroism as an act of self-trust and obedience to one's own character, often in contradiction to prevailing opinion.
What happens
This chapter defines heroism as an act of self-trust and obedience to one's own character, often in contradiction to prevailing opinion. It is characterized by truth, generosity, temperance, and scorn for petty calculations and material comfort. Heroism is illustrated through historical examples, literary references, and the assertion that it thrives in times of crisis, demanding champions and martyrs to uphold virtue and free thought.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and Character
The entire chapter is a direct exposition on heroism as the ultimate expression of character—defined by self-trust, truth, generosity, and contempt for external goods and false prudence.
Self-Reliance
Heroism is explicitly described as 'an obedience to a secret impulse of an individual’s character' and 'Self-trust is the essence of heroism.' It involves defiance of public opinion.
Prudence vs. Soul
Heroism is starkly contrasted with 'false prudence which dotes on health and wealth.' The heroic soul laughs at the earnest nonsense of petty, calculative life.
Society and Reform
Heroism is linked to raising 'the standard of civil virtue' and is tested in societal crises, persecution, and martyrdom for causes like free speech, as in the case of Lovejoy.
Characters to notice
- Sophocles
Portrayed as the heroic Duke of Athens in a quoted play excerpt; demonstrates disdain for fortune and death, defining dying as 'to begin to live'.
- George Washington
Referenced as an example of one safely wrapped in his shroud, envied for being free from the meanness of contemporary politics.
- Napoleon Bonaparte
Implied through the context of historical figures of action and contradiction, though not directly named.
- The Narrator (Emerson)
Acts as the defining voice, analyzing the nature of heroism, critiquing false prudence, and exhorting the reader to follow their own bosom's counsel.
- Plato
Implied through the philosophical context of the 'heroic cast of character' and the ascent from the material, akin to Plotinus who is mentioned.
- Jesus
Implied as a archetype of heroic virtue and martyrdom within the discussion of champions, martyrs, and persecution.
- William Shakespeare
Contextually present through the discussion of English dramatists and the 'heroic cast of character and dialogue' in plays of that era.
- Thomas Carlyle
Cited for his biographical and historical pictures that suffer no heroic trait to drop, highlighting a modern appreciation for manly and daring character.
Key passages
“Heroism is an obedience to a secret impulse of an individual’s character.”
True heroic acts spring from following one's own innate and personal sense of purpose, not from external approval.
Foundational definition of the chapter.
“Self-trust is the essence of heroism.”
The core quality of a hero is unwavering faith in one's own convictions and path.
Directly links the theme of Heroism to the doctrine of Self-Reliance.
“The hero is not fed on sweets, Daily his own heart he eats;”
The hero's sustenance comes from inner fortitude and self-confrontation, not from external comforts or pleasures.
From the poem within the chapter, emphasizing austerity and inner strength.
“To die / Is to begin to live.”
Death is not an end, but a transition to a truer, better state of existence.
Spoken by the character Sophocles, illustrating the heroic contempt for mortal life and fear.
“Who does not sometimes envy the good and brave who are no more to suffer from the tumults of the natural world...”
In moments of despair, one may envy those who have heroically completed their lives and are now at peace, safe from worldly strife.
Reflects on the peace earned through a life of heroic endeavor, using Washington as an example.
