what makes a hero?

[kneazle255]

No: HPFGUIDX 80656

hermionegallo:
> I would suggest that the word 'hero' can mean a lot of different 
things. Although the modern use of the word is looser, in the 
strictest sense, a hero is someone with outstanding qualities who 
is able defeat terrifying enemies, often WITH supernatural or divine 
help. Like Achilles, Odysseus, Perseus, Jason.
I will also say categorically that none of this detracts from Ron's 
or Hermione's courage in accompanying him. > >

Laura:
> Is it possible that there's a difference between the literary 
term "hero" and the way we use it in common, real-life parlance?  The 
literary hero has a pretty strict definition and set of criteria, as 
I understand it.  But we use it a lot more loosely and casually in 
conversation. >>>


kneazle255:

I agree with you Laura, there a difference. 

I like HG's point that having a lot of help does not exclude one form 
being a hero.

And I believe Harry is a hero as defined as "someone who risks his 
life to save others and could stop anytime he wants to but keeps 
going anyway." He does that twice(?) in the books (CoS and the 2nd 
Task on GoF. He attempts to save Sirius from Lord Thingy at the 
Ministry as well. I am not sure about PoA. That one is too 
confuzzling.)