After previously considering the nature of The Villain in writing and their role within the narrative arc, it now only seems fitting to extend the tentacles into the characteristics of The Hero. The one we are all rooting for. Or the one we are all convinced to root for. There’s a difference.

A Hero can be presented to us in many ways. One thousand, if we are to believe Joseph Campbell’s work (A Hero with a Thousand Faces). Being the Hero seems synonymous with succeeding. The one who rises above all others to achieve what no other could possibly do. Yet those are not the heroes to celebrate. Those that hold the most lasting resonance are the heroes that fail.

Failure often has a way of instigating unexpected success. Rather than leading to where we think it should be, it guides us to where it needs to be. Swift changes of direction becomes the focus and a narrative change in emphasis to move the reader along with it. What feels more heroic is how they rise above that failure.

Children’s literature often follows this example. Dorothy (The Wizard of Oz) initially fails to gain a way to go home, not knowing that each step she takes on that Yellow Brick Road is bringing her closer to a better understanding of what she holds precious. Reaping the benefits of self-sacrifice for the sake of others. Anne Shirley (Anne of Green Gables) wants a life full of impossible dreams but manages to create chaos in her attempt to secure it for herself. But it is because of each of her failures that she makes herself endearing to her adopted family and essentially gets her what she always wanted: security. Even King Arthur had to fail in his quest in order to achieve what he needs, rather than what he wants. He became legendary for it.

For Heroes, the journey becomes the success, rather than the achievement of the original goal. In the gaping maw of defeat, the Hero will try something new. They will attempt to side-step the tempting grasp of apathy and persevere, despite the cost to themselves.

Therefore, failure is what makes a Hero heroic. The Hero is not a Hero until they fail.