good thesis statement about heroes

Essays About Heroes: 5 Examples And Topic Ideas

Here, we’ll look at examples of essays about heroes and questions that can be used as topics for essays about an imagined or real hero.

A few different images likely come to mind when you hear the word hero. You may imagine Superman flying above the world with his superpower of flight. You may imagine a personal hero, a real person who has made a significant impact on your life for the better. You might think of a true hero as someone who has shown heroic qualities in the public eye, working to help ordinary people through difficult situations.

When writing an essay about your life hero, it’s important to consider the qualities of that person that make them stand out to you. Whether you choose to write an essay about how your mom got you through tough times and became your role model or about a political figure who made a difference in the lives of people in history, it’s key to not just focus on the person’s actions—you’ll also want to focus on the qualities that allowed them to act heroically.

Here, we’ll explore examples of hero essays and potential topics to consider when writing about a hero.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers

Examples Of Essays About Heroes

• 1. These Are The Heroes Of The Coronavirus Pandemic By Ruth Marcus
• 2. Why Teachers Are My Heroes By Joshua Muskin
• 3. Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

4. Steve Prefontaine: The Track Of A Hero By Bill O’Brian

5. forget hamilton, burr is the real hero by carey wallace, topic ideas for essays about heroes, 1. what makes a hero, 2. what are the most important characteristics of heroes in literature, 3. what constitutes a heroic act, 4. is selflessness required for heroism.

1.  These Are The Heroes Of The Coronavirus Pandemic  By Ruth Marcus

“Is this what they signed up for? There is some danger inherent in the ordinary practice of medicine, but not this much. I confess: I do not know that I would do the same in their circumstances; I am not sure I am so generous or so brave. If my child were graduating from medical school, how would I deal with her being sent, inadequately protected, into an emergency room? If my husband were a physician, would I send him off to the hospital — or let him back into the house in the interim?” Ruth Marcus

Healthcare workers have had no choice but to go above and beyond in recent years. In this essay, Marcus discusses the heroism of those in the healthcare field. He delves into the traits (including selflessness and courage) that make doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers heroes.

2.  Why Teachers Are My Heroes   By Joshua Muskin

“Teachers are my heroes because they accept this responsibility and try extremely hard to do this well even when the conditions in which they work are far from ideal; at least most do. Our jobs as society, education systems, and parents is to do our best to be strong allies to teachers, since their success is essential to ours.” Joshua Muskin

In this essay, Dr. Muskin discusses the many challenges teachers face and what parents, administrators, and education researchers can do to help teachers support students. Muskin explains that most teachers go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their classrooms.

3.  Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero   By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

“During this nonviolent protest, activists used boycotts, sit-ins, and marches to protest segregation and unfair hiring practices that caught the attention of the entire world. However, his tactics were put to the test when police brutality was used against the marchers, and King was arrested. But, his voice was not silenced, as he wrote his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” to refute his critics.” Kathy Weiser-Alexander

In this essay, Weiser-Alexander details both the traits and the actions of Dr. King before and during the civil rights movement. The author touches on King’s commitment to justice, persistence, and willingness to stand for his beliefs despite difficult circumstances.

“I remember this so vividly because Prefontaine was a hero to me, a hero in a way that no one was before, or really has been since. A British commentator once called him “an athletic Beatle.” If so, his persona was much more Lennon than McCartney. Actually, I thought of him more as Mick Jagger — or ultimately James Dean.” Bill O’Brian

A hero to many in the running world, Prefontaine’s confidence, unique style, and unmatched athletic ability have been heralded for decades. In this essay, O’Brian shares how he, as a distance runner during the era of Pre, related to his struggles and ambition.

“Burr fought against an ugly tide of anti-immigrant sentiment in the young republic, led by Hamilton’s Federalist party, which suggested that anyone without English heritage was a second-class citizen, and even challenged the rights of non-Anglos to hold office. In response, Burr insisted that anyone who contributed to society deserved all the rights of any other citizen, no matter their background.” Carey Wallace

In this essay, Wallace explains why Aaron Burr, the lifelong nemesis of founding father Alexander Hamilton, should be considered a historical hero. This essay exposes someone seen as a villain but much of society with a different take on their history. 

It can be interesting to think about your definition of a hero. When describing what the term hero means to you, you may want to choose a person (or a few people) you look up to as a hero to solidify your point. You might want to include fictional characters (such as those in the Marvel universe) and real-life brave souls, such as police officers and firefighters.

A word of caution: stay away from the cliche opening of describing how the dictionary defines a hero. Instead, lead-in with a personal story about a hero who has affected your life. While talking about a public figure as a hero is acceptable, you may find it easier to write about someone close to you who you feel has displayed heroic qualities. Writing about a family member or friend who has shown up as a heroic main character in your life can be just as exciting as writing about a real or imagined superhero.

From Beowulf to Marvel comics, heroes in literature take on many different traits. When writing an essay on what trait makes a hero come alive in a short story, novel, or comic, choose a few of your favorite heroes and find common themes that they share.

Perhaps your favorite heroes are selfless and are willing to put themselves last in the name of sacrifice for others. Perhaps they’re able to dig deep into the truth, being honest even when it’s hard, for the greater good. There’s no need to list endless heroes to make your point—choosing three or four heroes from literature can be a great way to support your argument about what characteristics define heroism in literature.

When someone is named a hero in real life, we often picture them saving people from a burning building or performing a difficult surgical operation. It can be difficult to pin down exactly what constitutes a heroic act. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, think about people who go above and beyond, performing feats of courage, honesty, and bravery to support themselves or others. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, discuss real-life or literary examples of heroes at work.

To many people, being a hero means giving back to others. While giving something away or trading in one’s well-being for others can certainly be seen as a heroic act, many people wonder if selflessness is required for heroism or if a hero can serve the greater good in a way that also supports their happiness. When writing about whether selflessness is required for heroism, choose examples from literature and real-life to support your point.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you’re still stuck, check out our available resource of essay writing topics .

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110 My Hero Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Everyone has heroes in their lives ''' people they look up to, admire, and aspire to be like. Whether it's a celebrity, a family member, a teacher, or even a fictional character, heroes can come in all shapes and sizes. Writing an essay about your hero can be a great way to express your admiration and appreciation for them. If you're struggling to come up with a topic for your hero essay, here are 110 ideas and examples to help get you started:

• My Mom/Dad: The person who has always been there for me, no matter what.
• My Grandparent: A wise and loving figure in my life.
• My Sibling: The person I look up to and learn from every day.
• My Best Friend: The person who always has my back and lifts me up when I'm feeling down.
• My Teacher: The person who has inspired me to learn and grow.
• My Coach: The person who pushes me to be my best self.
• My Favorite Author: The person whose words have shaped my worldview.
• My Favorite Musician: The person whose music speaks to my soul.
• My Favorite Actor/Actress: The person whose performances have moved me.
• My Favorite Artist: The person whose art has touched my heart.
• My Favorite Athlete: The person whose dedication and skill inspire me.
• My Favorite Activist: The person who fights for what they believe in.
• My Favorite Historical Figure: The person whose legacy continues to impact the world.
• My Favorite Fictional Character: The person who embodies the qualities I strive for.
• My Role Model: The person who sets a positive example for me to follow.
• My Mentor: The person who guides me and helps me grow.
• My Hero from History: The person who changed the world for the better.
• My Hero from Literature: The character who has stayed with me long after I finished reading their story.
• My Hero from Film/TV: The character who has inspired me with their courage and strength.
• My Hero from Music: The musician whose lyrics have spoken to me in times of need.
• My Hero from Sports: The athlete who has shown me what it takes to succeed.
• My Hero from Science: The scientist who has made groundbreaking discoveries.
• My Hero from Politics: The leader who fights for justice and equality.
• My Hero from Art: The artist whose work has challenged and inspired me.
• My Hero from Business: The entrepreneur who has built a successful career while giving back to their community.
• My Hero from Technology: The innovator who has revolutionized the way we live and work.
• My Hero from Medicine: The doctor who has saved lives and improved healthcare for all.
• My Hero from Education: The teacher who goes above and beyond to help their students succeed.
• My Hero from Humanitarian Work: The volunteer who dedicates their time and resources to helping those in need.
• My Hero from Environmentalism: The activist who fights to protect our planet and its resources.
• My Hero from Social Justice: The advocate who works to create a more just and equitable society.
• My Hero from Animal Rights: The activist who fights to protect and care for animals.
• My Hero from LGBTQ+ Rights: The advocate who fights for the rights and equality of LGBTQ+ individuals.
• My Hero from Disability Rights: The advocate who fights for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
• My Hero from Women's Rights: The advocate who fights for gender equality and women's empowerment.
• My Hero from Civil Rights: The activist who fights for racial equality and social justice.
• My Hero from Peace and Nonviolence: The advocate who works to promote peace and nonviolence in a world torn by conflict.
• My Hero from Community Service: The volunteer who dedicates their time and energy to improving their community.
• My Hero from Public Service: The leader who serves their country and community with integrity and dedication.
• My Hero from the Military: The service member who sacrifices their own safety to protect their country and its citizens.
• My Hero from Law Enforcement: The officer who puts their life on the line to keep their community safe.
• My Hero from Firefighting: The firefighter who bravely battles fires to save lives and property.
• My Hero from Emergency Medical Services: The paramedic who provides life-saving care in times of crisis.
• My Hero from Nursing: The nurse who provides compassionate care to patients in need.
• My Hero from Medicine: The doctor who saves lives and improves the health of their patients.
• My Hero from Mental Health: The therapist who helps individuals overcome their struggles and find healing.
• My Hero from Addiction Recovery: The counselor who supports individuals on their journey to sobriety.
• My Hero from Disability Services: The advocate who fights for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
• My Hero from Homelessness Services: The social worker who helps individuals find housing and support.
• My Hero from Youth Services: The mentor who supports and guides young people in need.
• My Hero from Elderly Care: The caregiver who provides compassionate support to elderly individuals.
• My Hero from Animal Welfare: The activist who fights to protect and care for animals in need.
• My Hero from Environmentalism: The advocate who works to protect our planet and its resources.
• My Hero from Social Justice: The advocate who fights for equality and justice for all.
• My Hero from LGBTQ+ Rights: The activist who fights for the rights and equality of LGBTQ+ individuals.
• My Hero from Education: The teacher who goes above and beyond to help their students

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77 My Hero Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best my hero topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 most interesting my hero topics to write about, 👍 good research topics about my hero, ❓ heroes essay questions.

• Celebrities as Good Role Models In the conclusion, it was affirmed that celebrities’ accomplishments are easily identifiable to the public, as is the case with Angelina and Oprah, and this makes them good role models.
• Willy Loman, a Poor Role Model to His Two Sons Biff and Happy The main theme in the play is sustained in the play with the sons of Willy attaining their personality from their father.
• My Hero: Bob Marley One of the things I admire the most about him is the possession of skills and the right attitude to influence positive change in society.
• Stereotyping Heroes in Cinema In mass media, representation usually involves the use of art and signs to change the concept of concrete reality, hence leading to stereotyping of characters and heroes in movies and other non-fiction programs from a […]
• Father as a Male Role Model During the days when schooling was considered to be accessible only to the children of the opulent, those who were not privileged enough to go to school, remained at home and helped their parents in […]
• Education and Leadership Role Modeling Generally, the article is of great significance to education, for it provides a guideline on what leadership trainers should emphasize in their endeavors of ensuring that education builds all round and sound mind leaders, who […]
• Significance of a Male Role Model for Forming Tomas and Gabe’s Personal It is possible to pay attention to Tomas and Gabe’s visions of masculinity referring to the ideas developed by Tomas in relation to the question, to the opinion which is characteristic for Gabe, and to […]
• Mythological and Modern-Day Heroes Myths and other forms of literature were the tools that the community used to pass the deeds of the heroes from one generation to the other.
• Parents as Failed Role Models: A Doll’s House and Fight Club The drinking culture of parents revealed in the story of the Fight Club underscores the elements that increase children’s exposure to alcohol and drug taking.
• The Life and Work of Jane Goodall, a Scientist and Role Model
• An Overview of the Reasons Why President Clinton Is a Role Model for Young People
• Prophet Muhammad as Role Model for Religious Teachers
• The Value of a Role Model in the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
• How Fortinbras is a Role Model to Hamlet
• The Privatization of Italian Savings Banks: A Role Model for Germany
• A Literary Analysis of the Influence of a Role Model in to Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• Risk Culture and the Role Model of the Honorable Merchant
• The Reasons Why I Look up to Clinton Richard Dawkins as a Role Model
• A Feminist Role Model in the Character of Catherine Earnshaw
• Positive Role Model in the Children and Young Peoples Workforce
• The Global Environment Facility-a Role Model for International Governance
• Transformational Leaders As A Role Model
• Family and Cosmopolitan Role Model
• The Importance of a Role Model That Impacts a Person’s Life
• Princess Diana as a Role Model and People’s Princess
• The Misconception of a Role Model and the Relation to an Athlete
• Virtue Ethics And The Great Role Model Of Folklore And Language
• Gender and the Study of Economics: Is There A Role Model Effect
• Paul Erlich as an Environmental Role Model
• What Makes Nooyi An Exceptional Role Model For All Of The Women?
• Finding America’s Television Role Model
• The Effect of Cristiano Ronaldo as My Football Role Model
• Ethical Issues and Management: Manager as a Role Model
• Oprah ‘s Role Model For Women Breaking Down Many Invisible
• Tennyson’s Ulysses as a Victorian Role Model
• The Police Officer as a Role Model for Children
• Role Of A Role Model For Employees
• Why Rey Is the Female Role Model I’ve Always Wanted
• The Role Model Qualities Shown by the Finchs’s Maid in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• Professional Athletes Should Be Role Model to Kindergartners in Modern Society
• Holden Caufield as a Role Model in The Catcher in the Rye
• Why I Chose Martin Luther King as My Role Model
• The United States as a Role Model Government
• Women Rhetoricians’ Role Model and Pan Chao
• What Makes A Role Model Like A Good Outlook
• The Constitution of India is a Role Model for The World
• The Importance Of A Good Leader And A Role Model On The Team
• Importance Of Being a Role Model
• True Grit Is Not A Good Role Model For Young Women Today
• What Is the Concept of a Hero?
• How Do Heroes Inspire Us?
• What Is a Hero in Real Life?
• What Is the Importance of a Hero?
• What Is a Good Hero Statement?
• How Do Heroes Improve Our Lives?
• What Is a Hero to Humanity?
• What Are the Characteristics of the Hero?
• What Made a Person a Hero?
• What Is a Hero Leader?
• Is It Important to Have a Role Model That Influences a Person’s Life?
• Who Is the Greatest Hero in History?
• What Does a Hero of Our Time Mean?
• What Are the Qualities of a Hero?
• What Are the Ways to Be a Hero?
• What Makes a Hero Powerful?
• What Makes a Strong Role Model?
• What Are Role Models Responsible For?
• Why Are Role Models Important to Identity?
• What Are the Types of Heroes?
• Who Is the Best Positive Role Model?
• What Can Be a Positive Role Model in the Workforce?
• What Is the Difference Between Ancient and Modern Heroes?
• What Is an Anti-hero?
• How Are Heroes and Villains Represented in Films?
• How Did Education Affect the Success of Forbes Heroes?
• What’s the Difference Between Imperfection and Cultural Heroes?
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Essay Samples on Hero

Odysseus: the epic hero of ancient greek mythology.

To define one hero, do you need to define all heroes? Or can you define one by stating their strengths, and that is it? It would all depend on how you define a hero, so how do you do that? For some, a hero could...

• Literature Review

Why Jesus Is a Hero: an Example of Love and Forgiveness

Is Jesus a hero or not? The meaning of a hero is someone who shows bravery, courage, determination, justice and more. A hero doesn’t need to save the world for people to say that is what a hero is, like Jesus, he reached out to...

• Influential Person
• Jesus Christ

Anti-Hero as the Best Depiction of Our Human Nature

Have you ever known a human who possesses a noble qualities of a hero? Probably none. Heroes embodies with noble qualities such as selfless, brave, strong, and many more to point out which is a long way from the truth and that sends out that...

• Human Nature

What Does It Mean to Be a Hero in Greek Culture: Mythology Review

As Achilles demonstrates great strength on the battlefield, his thirst for glory and honor deprive him of the title of a hero. These flaws hinder his ferocious behavior making him selfish and merciless. His selfishness is clearly exhibited when he refuses to fight because Agamemnon...

• Character Analysis

Unveiling Jesus as the Heroic Figure of True Faith and Love

A hero is someone who gives themselves, often putting their own life at great risk, for the greater good of others . A hero shows courage and is determined and dedicated to helping others in need by showing selflessness and sacrifice for the good of...

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Jesus as the Greatest Hero: Being Gifted With Godlike DNA

A hero is a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Jesus shown these quality’s in different bible readings. Jesus was not only a hero that did miracles to heal people, he was a hero that sacrificed his own life...

Psychotic and Rambunctious: Harley Quinn as a Role Model

A hero can demonstrate the qualities of the archetypal hero by being courageous and willingness to fight for others. Heros is an archetype that reflects the common experiences all human beings experiences. Personal experiences of a hero would be a parent or a caretaker these...

• Famous Person
• Role Models

"Beowulf" And "Sir Gawain": Compare And Contrast

Throughout this poem, there are various factors that demonstrate to us what a hero is defined as. A hero is a person with noble qualities who is courageous, brave, and idolized by many people. They often put their life at risk for other people’s greater...

• Middle Ages
• Sir Gawain and The Green Knight

Best topics on Hero

1. Odysseus: the Epic Hero of Ancient Greek Mythology

2. Why Jesus Is a Hero: an Example of Love and Forgiveness

3. Anti-Hero as the Best Depiction of Our Human Nature

4. What Does It Mean to Be a Hero in Greek Culture: Mythology Review

5. Unveiling Jesus as the Heroic Figure of True Faith and Love

6. Jesus as the Greatest Hero: Being Gifted With Godlike DNA

7. Psychotic and Rambunctious: Harley Quinn as a Role Model

8. “Beowulf” And “Sir Gawain”: Compare And Contrast

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If you are writing a hero essay, you have to describe a particular person who did something great. This can be a story about brave heroes of the World War II that were fighting with an enemy to save other people. You may write about a smart scientist who invented something significant to simplify our life. Maybe you even have your own hero? Your main task here is to write about personal qualities to explain to your readers why this certain person is a great hero. It's important to find strong words to describe this particular man or woman, there are a lot of things to write about. This type of paper requires good skills in writing and a lot of time. We have created this detailed instruction to help people in writing a strong hero essay. Read all pages of our article, it will help to figure out how to make a successful story that will attract many readers. Follow our simple hints, don't forget to plan your time beforehand! In case you lack time or ideas, remember that StudyCrumb can help you with any academic essay. Just say " Write my essay cheap " and our professionals will create a wonderful paper on any topic. 

4 Steps of Creating a Brilliant Story About Your Hero

These are the main steps that will help people to make a good essay.

• Brainstorm your ideas to choose your hero. You are free to write about anyone: from a heroic person that saves people and their lives to a fictional character from a cartoon for children. The most important thing is to mention the qualities of the chosen person to show your readers their power and strength. Find a character analysis example to base on.
• Make a clear outline for your future work. You may think it's not necessary to do it at all, but creating an outline is an important step in writing; if you are traveling in the unknown place, you definitely have a map, don't you? The same is with creating your paper. An outline is your map to guide you through the process of writing, that's why you shouldn't neglect this step.
• Write a draft of your essay. Here everything is simple: just follow your outline, don't try to pay attention to grammar and punctuation. You will have a chance to fix all errors later. Try to be concentrated on your writing.
• Revise your hero essay to correct all mistakes and misprints. We suggest taking some time for rest after you have finished your paper and then start editing your work. It's more effective to check the paper with refreshed eyes. We suggest using various online programs to run online spell check and correct grammar mistakes.

How to Make a Good Outline for My Hero Essay?

As we already mentioned, an essay outline is an important part of writing your story about heroes; here is how you should build it:

• Introduction Here it's important to introduce your hero to readers: explain why this person is very important to you. Don't forget to provide your audience with a short background.
• The main part Here you should describe all qualities and characteristics of your hero to people. Provide heroic acts in details, don't forget about examples to support your argument. For instance, don't just write that a person was very brave. Provide a story that will prove it: tell your readers how your courage and character saved someone's life or did something significant for others.
• Conclusion This is a part of your paper where you have to rephrase the main idea of your writing to finish your essay logically. Don't make it too big, never try to put anything new here. A good ending should be a short accord in your work.

Ideas for Writing an Interesting Paper About a Hero

If you feel stuck with your writing, we have a bunch of interesting ideas you can choose from:

• Make a story about a real hero from books or newspapers. This can be an essay about a brave soldier who fought in the war, this may be a work about a fireman with courage who saved a lot of people and children from fire.
• Write about a fictional hero. Many people read a lot of stories about Superman or Batman - they are big heroes. It's possible to create a bright and interesting paper about such characters. Keep in mind you should describe their feats and achievement and explain to your readers why they have to admire them.
• Famous people : actors, politicians, scientists, etc. can be your heroes easily. You can make an exciting story about a movie star; it's possible to write about a great scientist you admire a lot. Maybe you even have figured out your future profession thanks to these people? This is a great idea to create your hero story about!
• Sometimes even ordinary people can become heroes. Maybe your best friend saved a little puppy fighting with a couple of angry dogs? Your uncle seems to be a brave hero because he is a zoologist who fights with poachers to make this world better? Feel free to write about such heroes too. They are very important for all us.

5 Tips to Create a Perfect and Bright Work About a Hero

Follow these effective hints to write an exciting hero paper and get a high grade:

• Write about someone your audience doesn't expect to hear. When people hear a word "hero", they have brave knights with courage in their mind. Try to catch people attention with a story about a homeless man who saved a kitten from cars or about a neighbor's son who helps the old people of your district (buys food for them every day).
• Usually, people expect reading from hero essays about such qualities as bravery, fame, and courage. It's possible to make an exciting story about a character who is very kind or extremely optimistic even in a bad situation. Surprise your readers with something they don't expect! This is a very effective thing when you're making a hero essay.
• Think out of the box - feel free to write about anything that comes to your mind. Keep in mind that you should support your argument with examples. Describe actions, not just how the chosen person looks! A huge smile plus nice face cannot convince readers you are writing about a kind character. If you will mention that a young man helped old woman to cross the street, then it proves this is an act of kindness.
• Whether you're making a story about a real person or write about a hero from cartoons, movies, or comics, write about the facts you are familiar with. There is no reason to use your fantasy, trying to provide readers with a fairy tale.
• Make a bright introduction to grab the attention of your readers. People won't read a boring story, your main task here is to motivate them to read the entire work. There are several ways of creating an interesting beginning. Try to start your essay with a quote, put a question, or provide the audience with an anecdote. Just try to be non-ordinary to write a creative essay !

Why Is It Important to Read Hero Essay Examples?

Needless to say, it's quite useful to read hero essay examples to create your own interesting story. Reading helps to refine writing skills, we suggest searching for essay samples, no matter what kind of paper you're working on. Here we want to share our successful sample of an interesting hero essay that may be helpful to read:  

My dad is a great hero to me. Even if he doesn't do anything special in his everyday job, I admire him a lot. He is a lawyer who helps to make equitable justice. My dad taught me that it's quite important to be an honest person. My dad is a great hero to me. Even if he doesn't do anything special in his everyday job, I admire him a lot. He is a lawyer who helps to make equitable justice. My dad taught me that it's quite important to be an honest person. At the start, that cruel man tried to defame my father's client - he wanted to make him guilty in everything; my dad already had evidence against the man so he suggested him staying quiet. It didn't work, the next day someone offered my father a bribe. I can't write the sum here - this money would be enough for all us to live without working anymore. In addition, my mother was fighting cancer, we needed a lot of money. My father didn't accept that: he rejected the deal and he found a man who offered a bribe. Nowadays, that man with his sly partner are in jail. The father's client was acquitted in the court from a criminal charge. I already have chosen my future profession - I want to be a lawyer like my dad. I admire this person because he is a strong hero for me because he is the most honest man I know.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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Definition of Heroism Essay: Learn to Write by Example

By: Tasha Kolesnikova

In order to better understand the course of students' thoughts, their ideals, and goals, high school teachers often ask to write a definition of heroism essay. To evaluate the concept of "hero", you need to analyze a particular character's qualities. Don't worry if you don't know how to do it. In the following paragraphs, you will find useful tips for preparing and writing an essay.

Definition of Heroism Essay Sample

Choose a worthy example of a hero, essay structure.

Recently, the word "heroism" has become increasingly used. In the traditional sense, heroism is the highest manifestation of devotion and courage in public duty performance. A hero is a person who, for his achievements or qualities, is seen as an ideal, an example to follow. Who really deserves this high title - a true hero? I believe that only those people who can sacrifice themselves for the good of others become heroes. 

Heroism, in my opinion, is the highest manifestation of humanity. Only people with truly noble qualities, who have compassion and responsibility, are able to feel the plight of others and give their lives for the sake of others. But often, heroism is a reward for someone's imperfection, injustice.

We can recall many vivid examples of figurative coverage of this idea. One of the best among them is John Coffey, a tragic hero, the protagonist of Stephen King's novel The Green Mile. With the help of his gift, this man commits a heroic act - he tries to save two girls from death, although he himself may be suspected of murder. In the end, he is sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit, but on the side of this courageous and noble man - the truth and the reader's sympathy.

Acts of heroism are manifested in some unusual, special conditions in which the one who must instantly make his choice (and for this, he must be at least a decent person). It is a pity that such circumstances often arise as a result of the irresponsibility of those whose job it was to avoid such situations. Therefore, the inevitable tragedy of the victim, retribution for someone else's guilt is acutely felt in the heroic. Examples of this in history and in modern life as much as you want. Don't firefighters in Australia who risked their lives to save people and animals from a terrible fire deserve the title of heroes? And aren't the hundreds of doctors who are helping people who have been struck by the coronavirus pandemic at the cost of their own health a hero? Of course, they are real heroes - not from a book, not from a movie, but in real life.

Thus, only courageous and noble people are capable of heroism. It requires a willingness to make a choice in favor of those who need your efforts at an extremely important time. Of course, this is peculiar only to high moral people and is manifested in their actions not every day but in special tragic circumstances that require sacrifice.

How to Write a Definition of Heroism Essay

This type of paper requires you to personally interpret a separate concept. The concept of heroism makes it possible to write an interesting and extensive essay-definition. Next, we talk in more detail about what to keep in mind when writing a definition of heroism essay.

We consider the heroes of those people or characters who, in our opinion, correspond to the "heroic" qualities of character traits. Some believe that heroes can be ordinary people who possess such qualities as selflessness, devotion, and courage. Others are convinced that true heroic qualities can be inherent only in Marvel superheroes. In your essay, you should set a good example of those you consider heroes.

An interesting example of an epic hero is Odysseus. Thanks to his intelligence and observation, he saves his crew, showing responsibility for its fate. He is characterized by courage, bravery, and determination.

Another example of a heroic epic is Beowulf. As in every epoch, this hero is brave and unrestrained, fights with fears unarmed and ready to die, obeying fate.

History has given us the names of many heroes. One of them was Martin Luther King Jr., a well-known black rights activist. King inspired people with his speech and his thoughts on the just and peaceful coexistence of people of different skin colors. Many people around the world still follow his ideas.

The worldview of Martin Luther King was greatly influenced by the ideas of another hero - Mahatma Gandhi. He professed the principles of nonviolence and commitment to the truth. He has the saying, "Truth is God."

If fictional characters inspire you with superpowers, then good examples of modern heroes can be even Batman or Superman, who constantly save the world.

Start by defining the concept.  In the introduction, you should give the traditional definition of a hero. In this way, you will create a context and give the reader an initial understanding of the word. Then describe the term in your own words in the thesis statement. It is important to start with something exciting to get the reader's attention.

Tell about your hero in the body of the essay.  What makes a hero famous? That's right - his heroic deeds. So in the main part of the essay, choose your example of a real hero and describe his actions that inspired you. If you want to illustrate your vision of defining a hero on the example of several characters - write about each of them in a separate paragraph. A few quotes can enrich your text.

Begin each paragraph with a thematic sentence. How to write these sentences? Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the dictionary definition of the term "hero"? Perform your assignment, supporting the idea with the names of legendary figures.
• What character traits do you consider heroic? Virtue, courage, self-sacrifice - analyze in detail each manifestation of these traits.
• Why do you consider this or that person a hero? Obviously, because they have "heroic" traits.

Conclude with a summary of the main points.  Review the topic sentences of each paragraph. They can be a good way to draw conclusions. You can also complete the essay by referring to the thesis in the introduction. If your hero essay has affected your life, the conclusion is just a good place to mention it. Write about this experience briefly and succinctly.

Check out our other web pages for more  essay help  and  essay editing . Alternatively, you may wish to use our  proofreading services  for polishing and perfecting your essay to give you that extra grade boost!

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Hero — Heroes

Hero Essay Examples

Heroes essay topics.

Heroes are individuals, or groups of individuals, who have performed extraordinary acts of selfless bravery or that have accomplished something worthy of note. Examples of heroes could be Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier of WWII, or the 1980 US Olympic hockey team, a group of college ice hockey players who, against incredible odds, defeated a team of professional, Soviet ice hockey players and won the gold medal. Such people are inspirations for prose, verse, song, and film, and they can even serve as personal inspiration for those who find themselves in dire straits. As a student, you might find yourself writing topic heroes essays and why you or others find them to be inspirational. On our database, you can find several hero essay ideas essays with introductory and concluding paragraphs you can use as examples of hero essay topics for your writing.

Heroes play a crucial role in literature, history, and contemporary society. They embody values such as bravery, selflessness, and integrity, inspiring others through their actions and character. Writing about heroes allows us to explore the qualities that define heroism, the impact heroes have on their communities, and the ways in which ordinary individuals can rise to extraordinary challenges. Whether focusing on historical figures, fictional characters, or everyday heroes, these essays offer rich opportunities for reflection and analysis.

10 Hero Titles for Essays

• The Unsung Heroes: Ordinary People Making Extraordinary Differences
• Heroism in Literature: Analyzing Iconic Characters
• Historical Heroes: Figures Who Changed the Course of History
• Everyday Heroes: Acts of Courage in Daily Life
• Defining Heroism: What Makes a True Hero?
• Superheroes vs. Real-Life Heroes: Comparing Fiction and Reality
• Modern-Day Heroes: Influential Figures of Our Time
• The Evolution of the Hero Archetype in Popular Culture
• Heroic Leadership: Lessons from Great Leaders
• Young Heroes: Inspiring Stories of Youth Making a Difference

Hook Examples for Hero Essays

Anecdotal hook.

Picture this: a lone figure standing in the face of adversity, unwavering and resolute, ready to sacrifice for the greater good. Such is the essence of a hero's journey. Join me as we explore the extraordinary stories of those who inspire and uplift us.

Quotation Hook

""A hero is someone who has given their life to something bigger than oneself."" These words from Joseph Campbell encapsulate the profound essence of heroism and selflessness that we encounter in the tales of heroes throughout history.

Heroic Archetypes Hook

Heroes come in many forms, yet they often share common characteristics. Delve into the world of heroic archetypes and explore how these universal traits shape the heroes we admire.

Real vs. Fictional Heroes Hook

Heroes exist not only in the pages of literature but also in the real world. Analyze the distinctions and similarities between fictional heroes and the heroes who walk among us in everyday life.

Heroic Acts of Courage Hook

What does it take to perform acts of extraordinary courage? Explore the moments of heroism that define individuals and alter the course of history, from firefighters battling infernos to everyday people facing life-altering decisions.

Unsung Heroes Hook

Not all heroes wear capes or stand in the spotlight. Some heroes quietly make a difference in the lives of others without seeking recognition. Discover the stories of unsung heroes whose contributions often go unnoticed.

Heroism in the Face of Adversity Hook

Adversity has a way of revealing heroes among us. Analyze how individuals rise to the occasion in times of crisis, demonstrating remarkable heroism in the midst of challenges and turmoil.

Christopher Columbus: The Contested Legacy of a Hero

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True Heroism: Beyond Myths and Legends

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Rosa Parks; a Woman Deserving Respect and Recognition

What makes a hero: analysis of fictional and real-life heroes, what makes a hero: superman and jesus analysis, the heroes of old and new: odysseus and sally ride, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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The Unknown Heroes Are Around Us

The dynamic nature of heroism in today's society, the meaning of being a true hero, nat turner: hero or villain, the vital values that comprise the definition of hero, what makes a hero: important traits, helen keller – an inspirational woman, my hero: galileo galilei, what makes a hero: my idea of a hero, jackie robinson – an american national hero, various interpretations of the heroic figure in paradise lost, harry potter and the last unicorn: analysing the concept of heroism, oedipus: the tragic hero's journey, discussion of what makes a hero in capitalism society, heroic acts in 'journey's end', why i believe that andrew carnegie was a hero, a report on hercules – the greek divine hero, miss tretheway: a hero among the forgotten , sofia kritikou – everyday hero of the holocaust, the definition and main characteristics of heroes.

Heroes are individuals who display courage, bravery, and selflessness in the face of adversity, often risking their own lives to help others.

• Heroes can come from all walks of life, including everyday people and even animals.
• Heroism is often instinctual, with individuals acting without thinking in dangerous situations.
• Heroes can have a lasting impact on society, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
• Not all heroes wear capes; some may be unassuming but perform incredible acts of bravery.
• Heroes often do not seek recognition for their actions, showing true humility.

The topic of heroes is important as it highlights the best of humanity, showcasing the power of compassion and bravery in the face of adversity. By celebrating heroes, we are reminded of the potential for good within each of us and are inspired to emulate their selfless actions in our own lives. Heroes serve as role models for future generations, demonstrating the importance of standing up for what is right and helping those in need."

Relevant topics

• Helping Others
• Someone Who Inspires Me
• Winter Break
• Jackie Robinson
• Responsibility
• Forgiveness

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

What Makes a Hero?

This month, Greater Good features videos of a presentation by Philip Zimbardo, the world-renowned psychologist perhaps best known for his infamous Stanford Prison Experiment. In his talk, Zimbardo discusses the psychology of evil and of heroism, exploring why good people sometimes turn bad and how we can encourage more people to perform heroic acts. In this excerpt from his talk, he zeroes in on his research and educational program designed to foster the “heroic imagination.”

More on Heroism

Watch the video of Philip Zimbardo's Greater Good talk on heroism.

Read his essay on " The Banality of Heroism ," which further explores the conditions that can promote heroism vs. evil.

Read this Greater Good essay on the "psychology of the bystander."

Learn more about Zimbardo's Heroic Imagination Project.

What makes us good? What makes us evil?

Research has uncovered many answers to the second question: Evil can be fostered by dehumanization, diffusion of responsibility, obedience to authority, unjust systems, group pressure, moral disengagement, and anonymity, to name a few.

But when we ask why people become heroic, research doesn’t yet have an answer. It could be that heroes have more compassion or empathy; maybe there’s a hero gene; maybe it’s because of their levels of oxytocin—research by neuroeconomist Paul Zak has shown that this “love hormone” in the brain increases the likelihood you’ll demonstrate altruism. We don’t know for sure.

I believe that heroism is different than altruism and compassion. For the last five years, my colleagues and I have been exploring the nature and roots of heroism, studying exemplary cases of heroism and surveying thousands of people about their choices to act (or not act) heroically. In that time, we’ve come to define heroism as an activity with several parts.

First, it’s performed in service to others in need—whether that’s a person, group, or community—or in defense of certain ideals. Second, it’s engaged in voluntarily, even in military contexts, as heroism remains an act that goes beyond something required by military duty. Third, a heroic act is one performed with recognition of possible risks and costs, be they to one’s physical health or personal reputation, in which the actor is willing to accept anticipated sacrifice. Finally, it is performed without external gain anticipated at the time of the act.

Simply put, then, the key to heroism is a concern for other people in need—a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there is a personal risk, done without expectation of reward.

By that definition, then, altruism is heroism light—it doesn’t always involve a serious risk. Compassion is a virtue that may lead to heroism, but we don’t know that it does. We’re just now starting to scientifically distinguish heroism from these other concepts and zero in on what makes a hero.

My work on heroism follows 35 years of research in which I studied the psychology of evil, including my work on the infamous Stanford Prison Experiment . The two lines of research aren’t as different as they might seem; they’re actually two sides of the same coin.

A key insight from research on heroism so far is that the very same situations that inflame the hostile imagination in some people, making them villains, can also instill the heroic imagination in other people, prompting them to perform heroic deeds.

Take the Holocaust. Christians who helped Jews were in the same situation as other civilians who helped imprison or kill Jews, or ignored their suffering. The situation provided the impetus to act heroically or malevolently. Why did some people choose one path or the other?

Another key insight from my research has been that there’s no clear line between good and evil. Instead, the line is permeable; people can cross back and forth between it.

This is an idea wonderfully represented in an illusion by M. C. Escher, at left. When you squint and focus on the white as the figures and the black as the background, you see a world full of angels and tutus dancing around happily. But now focus on the black as the figures and the white as the background: Now it’s a world full of demons.

What Escher’s telling us is that the world is filled with angels and devils, goodness and badness, and these dark and light aspects of human nature are our basic yin and yang. That is, we all are born with the capacity to be anything. Because of our incredible brains, anything that is imaginable becomes possible, anything that becomes possible can get transformed into action, for better or for worse. 

Some people argue humans are born good or born bad; I think that’s nonsense. We are all born with this tremendous capacity to be anything, and we get shaped by our circumstances—by the family or the culture or the time period in which we happen to grow up, which are accidents of birth; whether we grow up in a war zone versus peace; if we grow up in poverty rather than prosperity.

George Bernard Shaw captured this point in the preface to his great play “Major Barbara”: “Every reasonable man and woman is a potential scoundrel and a potential good citizen. What a man is depends upon his character what’s inside. What he does and what we think of what he does depends on upon his circumstances.”

So each of us may possess the capacity to do terrible things. But we also posses an inner hero; if stirred to action, that inner hero is capable of performing tremendous goodness for others.

Another conclusion from my research is that few people do evil and fewer act heroically. Between these extremes in the bell curve of humanity are the masses—the general population who do nothing, who I call the “reluctant heroes”—those who refuse the call to action and, by doing nothing, often implicitly support the perpetrators of evil.

So on this bell curve of humanity, villains and heroes are the outliers. The reluctant heroes are the rest. What we need to discover is how to give a call to service to this general population. How do we make them aware of the evil that exists? How do we prevent them from getting seduced to the dark side?

We don’t yet have a recipe for creating heroes, but we have some clues, based on the stories of some inspiring heroes.

I love the story of a wonderful nine-year-old Chinese boy, who I call a dutiful hero. In 2008, there was a massive earthquake in China’s Szechuan province. The ceiling fell down on a school, killing almost all the kids in it. This kid escaped, and as he was running away he noticed two other kids struggling to get out. He ran back and saved them. He was later asked, “Why did you do that?” He replied, “I was the hall monitor! It was my duty, it was my job to look after my classmates!”

This perfectly illustrates what I call the “heroic imagination,” a focus on one’s duty to help and protect others. For him, it was cultivated by being assigned this role of hall monitor.

Another story: Irena Sendler was a Polish hero, a Catholic woman who saved at least 2,500 Jewish kids who were holed up in the Warsaw ghetto that the Nazis had erected. She was able to convince the parents of these kids to allow her to smuggle them out of the ghetto to safety. To do this, she organized a network.

That is a key principle of heroism: Heroes are most effective not alone but in a network. It’s through forming a network that people have the resources to bring their heroic impulses to life.

What these stories suggest is that every one of us can be a hero. Through my work on heroism, I’ve become even more convinced that acts of heroism don’t just arrive from truly exceptional people but from people placed in the right circumstance, given the necessary tools to transform compassion into heroic action.

Building on these insights, I have helped to start a program designed to learn more of heroism and to create the heroes of tomorrow.

The Heroic Imagination Project (HIP) is amplifying the voice of the world’s quiet heroes, using research and education networks to promote a heroic imagination in everyone, and then empower ordinary people of all ages and nations to engage in extraordinary acts of heroism. We want to democratize the notion of heroism, to emphasize that most heroes are ordinary people; it’s the act that’s extraordinary.

There are already a lot of great heroes projects out there, such as the Giraffe Heroes Project . The HIP is unique in that it’s the only one encouraging research into heroism, because there’s very little.

Here are a few key insights from research we’ve done surveying 4,000 Americans from across the country. Each of these statements is valid after controlling for all demographic variables, such as education and socioeconomic status.

Heroes surround us. One in five—20 percent—qualify as heroes, based on the definition of heroism I provide above. Seventy-two percent report helping another person in a dangerous emergency. Sixteen percent report whistle blowing on an injustice. Six percent report sacrificing for a non-relative or stranger. Fifteen percent report defying an unjust authority. And not one of these people has been formally recognized as a hero.

Opportunity matters. Most acts of heroism occur in urban areas, where there are more people and more people in need. You’re not going to be a hero if you live in the suburbs. No shit happens in the suburbs!

Education matters. The more educated you are, the more likely you are to be a hero, I think because you are more aware of situations.

Volunteering matters. One third of all the sample who were heroes also had volunteered significantly, up to 59 hours a week.

Gender matters. Males reported performing acts of heroism more than females. I think this is because women tend not to regard a lot of their heroic actions as heroic. It’s just what they think they’re supposed to do for their family or a friend.

Race matters. Blacks were eight times more likely than whites to qualify as heroes. We think that’s in part due to the rate of opportunity. (In our next survey, we’re going to track responses by area code to see if in fact these heroes are coming from inner cities.

Personal history matters. Having survived a disaster or personal trauma makes you three times more likely to be a hero and a volunteer.

Based on these insights into heroism, we’ve put together a toolkit for potential heroes, especially young heroes in training, who already have opportunities to act heroically when they’re kids, such as by opposing bullying.

A first step is to take the “hero pledge,” a public declaration on our website that says you’re willing to be a hero in waiting. It’s a pledge “to act when confronted with a situation where I feel something is wrong,” “to develop my heroic abilities,” and “to believe in the heroic capacities within myself and others, so I can build and refine them.”

You can also take our four-week “Hero Challenge” mini-course online to help you develop your heroic muscles. The challenge may not require you to do anything heroic, but it’s training you to be heroic. And we offer more rigorous, research-based education and training programs for middle and high schools, corporations, and the millitary that make people aware of the social factors that produce passivity, inspire them to take positive civic action, and encourage the skills needed to consistently translate heroic impulses into action.

We’re also in the process of creating an Encyclopedia of Heroes, a collection of hero stories from all over the world. Not just all the classic ones and fictional ones, but ones that people from around the world are going to send in, so they can nominate ordinary heroes with a picture and a story. It will be searchable, so you can find heroes by age, gender, city and country. These are the unsung, quiet heroes—they do their own thing, put themselves in danger, defend a moral cause, help someone in need. And we want to highlight them. We want them to be inspirational to other people just like them.

Essentially, we’re trying to build the social habits of heroes, to build a focus on the other, shifting away from the “me” and toward the “we.” As the poet John Donne wrote: “No man [or woman] is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; … any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.”

So every person is part of humanity. Each person’s pulse is part of humanity’s heartbeat. Heroes circulate the life force of goodness in our veins. And what the world needs now is more heroes—you. It’s time to take action against evil.

About the Author

Philip Zimbardo

Philip Zimbardo, Ph.D. , is a professor emeritus of psychology at Stanford University, a professor at Palo Alto University, a two-time past president of the Western Psychological Association, and a past president of the American Psychological Association. He is also the author of the best-selling book The Lucifer Effect and the president of the Heroic Imagination Project .

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Banality of evil: the flip-side.

Very nice information. In this world this is the very difficult question that what makes people good or evil. This post has helped a lot to understand the difference. Actually in my point of it depends upon the individual that what he/she thinks. If he/she thinks negative all the time them they became evil and thinking vice versa makes them good.

Andrew | 2:31 am, January 19, 2011 | Link

I really like reading this article because there are many individuals in the world that are heroes but are not recognized.  Heroes that have help humanity progress and prosper have fought with the greatest weapons which are love, respect, sincerity, and peace.  The governments that have had the greatest fear of seeing people free have always use war for colonization, genocide, and false treaties.  However, love is much stronger than war, and thanks to the modern forms of communication and exchange of information, more people are united for peace and do not support or participate in colonization or human genocide.  Since the start of humanity most people have use peace to progress, few have participated in war and few are participating. May peace prevail on earth!

Victor | 7:48 pm, January 29, 2011 | Link

A son raising up against an evil father. A brother standing up to a bully attacking his sibling. A stranger rallying to the side of a woman being assaulted in the street.

My sons are my strength. My reason to help others, that they may find the help they need in their lives.

pops | 9:39 am, February 3, 2011 | Link

Of course religion and eduction has a big impact on a child. But once a child is trying to live a good life (earning good karma or call it whatever you want) good things will happen to that child and he or she will recognize this.

So I think you can definitely change from evil to good.. maybe you _can be changed_ from good to evil.

Massud Hosseini | 7:28 am, September 17, 2011 | Link

Actually in my point of it depends upon the individual that what he/she thinks

asalah | 9:41 pm, September 24, 2011 | Link

“Research has uncovered many answers to the second question: Evil can be fostered by dehumanization, diffusion of responsibility, obedience to authority, unjust systems, group pressure, moral disengagement, and anonymity, to name a few.”  <—What I find amazing about this statement is that anything is being branded “evil” at all.  Well, maybe not.  Relativism seems to be something that’s employed when convenient, disregarded when it’s not.

Kukri | 6:58 pm, November 6, 2011 | Link

This is a very comprehensive discussion on heroism. Victor makes a great point in his comment about how most heroes go unnoticed by the vast majority of people. I think that lack of notoriety is part of what it means to be a hero: doing that which is unexpected without the need for a pat on the back. quotes for facebook status

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When a sniper’s bullet hits one soldier and misses the person next to him, that alone does not make the wounded soldier more heroic.

brokesteves | 6:10 am, April 24, 2012 | Link

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What Makes a Person Heroic?

Characteristics of a hero.

• Definitions
• Characteristics

What makes a person heroic? Is there a hero gene, naturally giving someone the characteristics of a hero? According to one study, the answer might rest in the type of heroism we are addressing.

In a paper published in 2010, researchers reported that people who engaged in one-time acts of bravery (like rushing into a burning building or rescuing someone from the path of an oncoming train) are not necessarily that much different from control groups of non-heroes.

By contrast, people who engage in lifelong heroism (such as professional nurses who regularly comfort the sick and dying) do share a number of important personality traits such as empathy , nurturance, and a need to live by a moral code.

Definitions of Heroism

The scientific study of heroism is a relatively recent topic of interest within the field of psychology.

Researchers have offered different definitions of exactly what makes a hero, but most suggest that heroism involves prosocial, altruistic actions that involve an element of personal risk or sacrifice. 

Researchers Franco, Blau, and Zimbardo define heroism as someone who:

• Acts voluntarily for the service of others who are in need, whether it is for an individual, a group, or a community
• Performs actions without any expectation of reward or external gain
• Recognizes and accepts the potential risk or sacrifice made by taking heroic actions

Researchers do not necessarily agree about the central characteristics that make up heroism. One study published in 2015 in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggested that heroes have 12 central traits, which are:

• Determination
• Inspirational
• Moral integrity
• Self-sacrifice
• Selflessness

The psychology of heroism might not be well understood, but many experts do believe that it is possible for people to learn to be heroes . The following are just a few of the major characteristics that researchers have ascribed to heroes.

Concern for the Well-Being of Others

According to researchers, empathy, and compassion for others are key variables that contribute to heroic behavior. People who rush in to help others in the face of danger and adversity do so because they genuinely care about the safety and well-being of other people. They cannot bear to see someone suffering and are compelled to take action.

One study published in 2009 found that people who have heroic tendencies also have a much higher degree of empathy.  

People who engage in acts of heroism have concern and care for the people around them and they are able to feel what those in need of help are feeling.

Understanding Other Perspectives

Researchers suggest that heroes aren't just compassionate and caring; they have a knack for being able to see things from the perspective of others. They can "walk a mile in another man's shoes," so to speak.

When they encounter a situation where an individual is in need, they are immediately able to see themselves in that same situation and see what needs to be done to help.

Heroes Have Useful Skills and Strengths

Clearly, having the training or physical ability to deal with a crisis can also play a major role in whether or not people become heroes.

In situations where would-be rescuers lack the know-how or sheer physical strength to make a difference, people are less likely to help or are more likely to find less direct ways to take action. And in many cases, this approach is probably best; after all, people senselessly rushing into a dangerous situation can pose even more difficulties for rescue workers.

People who are trained and capable, such as those with first aid training and experience, are more ready and able to step up when their skills are needed.

Heroes Have a Strong Moral Compass

According to heroism researchers Philip Zimbardo and Zeno Franco, heroes have two essential qualities that set them apart from non-heroes: they live by their values and they are willing to endure personal risk to protect those values.

Moral reasoning at the highest levels incorporates principles of justice, equality, and honor. The heroic mindset upholds the sanctity of human life above material desires and personal needs. All heroic decisions must consider the potential outcomes and choose the pathway that will serve the greater good of humanity.

Their values and personal beliefs give them the courage and resolve to endure risk and even danger in order to adhere to those principles.

Heroes Are Competent and Confident

It takes both skill and self-confidence to rush into places others fear to tread. Researchers suggest that people who perform heroic acts tend to feel confident in themselves and their abilities.

When faced with a crisis , they have an intrinsic belief that they are capable of handling the challenge and achieving success no matter what the odds are. Part of this confidence might stem from above-average coping skills and abilities to manage stress.

Heroes Are More Optimistic

A person who rushes into a burning building to save another person is not just extraordinarily brave; he or she also possesses an ability to overcome fear. Researchers suggest that heroic individuals are positive thinkers by nature, which contributes to their ability to look past the immediate danger of a situation and see a more optimistic outcome.

In one 2010 study, researchers found that people identified as heroes were more likely to put a positive spin on negative events.  

When faced with a potentially life-threatening illness, people with heroic tendencies might focus on the good that might come from the situation such as a renewed appreciation for life or an increased closeness with loved ones.

Heroes Have a Higher Tolerance for Risk

In many cases, these individuals may also have a lower experience of fear and a higher tolerance for risk. Plenty of caring and kind people might shrink back in the face of danger. Those who do leap into action are typically more likely to take greater risks in multiple aspects of their lives.

Persistence is another quality commonly shared by heroes. They are often more patient and will keep working on their goals, even after multiple setbacks.

The decision to act heroically is a choice that many of us will be called upon to make at some point in time. By conceiving of heroism as a universal attribute of human nature, not as a rare feature of the few 'heroic elect,' heroism becomes something that seems in the range of possibilities for every person, perhaps inspiring more of us to answer that call.

A Word From Verywell

Researchers have found that in a lot of ways, heroes are not all that different from most people. However, there are a number of skills you can build that can boost your hero characteristics.

Building empathy, becoming competent and skilled, and being persistent in the face of obstacles are all abilities you can work on over time. By doing so, you can improve your ability to help others and come through in times of need.

Walker LJ, Frimer JA, Dunlop WL. Varieties of moral personality: Beyond the banality of heroism .  J Pers . 2010;78(3):907‐942. doi:10.1111/j.1467-6494.2010.00637.x

Franco ZE, Blau K, Zimbardo PG. Heroism: A conceptual analysis and differentiation between heroic action and altruism .  Review of General Psychology . 2011;15(2):99-113. doi:10.1037/a0022672.

Kinsella EL, Ritchie TD, Igou ER. Zeroing in on heroes: A prototype analysis of hero features . J Pers Soc Psychol. 2015;108(1):114-127. doi:10.1037/a0038463

Staats S, Wallace H, Anderson T, Gresley J, Hupp JM, Weiss E. The hero concept: Self, family, and friends who are brave, honest, and hopeful . Psychol Rep. 2009;104(3):820-832. doi:10.2466/PR0.104.3.820-832

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus. 

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point. 

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

• Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
• Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
• Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

• What impact did reality TV have on American society?
• How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
• Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that. 

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves. 

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

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• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

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Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

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Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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