What is a hero?

When most people think about heroes, they think about people with extra attributes including cool costumes, extraordinary abilities, and saviors of the town or world. Don't get me wrong. I used to think that too. I still do. I really enjoy reading comics and watching movies about these "heroes"; however, what people don't understand is that the term, "Hero", is a very broad topic. I say this because growing up, there have been real-life heroes all around and they don't need to wear a mask or costume to say otherwise. I'm talking about firemen, police, doctors, activists, high school principals, etc. Why are these people, heroes? Because they each serve a certain purpose of making their communities safer for people to live in. Real heroes trust their guts when something isn't right around them. Real heroes put others before themselves when it is most necessary. Real heroes demonstrate courage and are not afraid to do the right thing, even if others don't agree with them. These are only a few of the details that make a hero what he or she is. In short, I believe a hero requires specific attributes and traits to make them what they are.

1. Heroes have courage

If there is one thing real heroes and comic book heroes have in common, it's that they show no fear. They have confidence and are prepared for any obstacle that comes their way. Not a lot of people can go out into the neighborhood and prepare for any dangers that lie ahead. For example, in DC comics, most of the world has given up on Gotham City, except Bruce Wayne. After the death of his parents, Bruce Wayne trained for years to become a mask of vengeance for Gotham. He still believed that Gotham was able to be saved. Also, with a fireman, they aren't afraid to go into fires and put them out. Firefighting is very life risking. But someone has to do it.

2. Heroes are selfless

Heroes always put others before themselves, especially when it comes to the people that they love. As a hero, you are fighting for the greater good, which means the situation is way bigger than yourself. Heroes always think about how they can help others who need help. Usually, a hero doesn't even know certain people but still sacrifice their time to make thing right. When Superman first came to earth, he tried to live a normal life. As he got older and learned how to use his powers, he adopted his supernatural persona used it to save mankind. Even when he wasn't completely accepted, he still cared for the humans enough to save as many lives as possible.