While epic poetry gives us a plethora of heroism in literature, authors like Baroness Orczy explore a unique portrayal of heroism in The Scarlet Pimpernel. It is a story that interlaces elements of adventure, espionage, and sacrifice. Likewise, authors of verse, like George William A.E. Russell write about heroism in their own way with similar shades of color … and honor. In this post, we will examine how authors describe heroism during The Reign of Terror and WWI, which shows us how heroes use action and sacrifice.

Heroism and Pimpernel

The Price of Heroism

In the novel The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sir Percy Blakeney, the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel, stands as a hero whose bravery goes beyond societal norms. His identity as a foolish aristocrat and French rescuer during the Reign of Terror shows a bit of heroic complexity. Furthermore, the narrative suggests that heroism comes in unexpected forms. Sir Percy’s public persona as a dandy deceives those around him. In fact, he is using this silliness and foppishness to give the impression that he is incapable. Furthermore, the Scarlet Pimpernel’s plans and ability to outsmart Chauvelin and the French authorities shows a brave hero. Examples include the elaborate rescue operations, such as the one at the Chat Gris inn.

George William A.E. Russell and Heroism in Verse

Heroes and Mortality

Yet, heroism in literature is comes in many different forms. Let’s continue by delving into a poem by A.E. titled “The Last Hero.” Russell wrote this poem during WWI and attempted to typify a type of hero that was falling in battle every single day. AE’s poem explores this idea within the framework of mortality and life’s cyclical nature. The narrative begins with the solemn act of laying the hero to rest.

AE states, “We laid him to rest with tenderness; / Homeward we turned in the twilight’s gold.” This poignant beginning sets the tone for a reflection on the hero’s departure and the inevitable passage from life to death.

The poet contemplates the nature of existence, and they show the idea that “All the story of earth is told.” In other words, there is a sense of completion, as if the hero’s life was the entirety of the human experience. The hero’s departure is the end of a metaphorical chapter, showing the finite nature of mortal lives and mortal stories.

Heroic Virtue

An important moment, and one that suggests heroism of a specific sort, occurs when AE writes, “great deep heart like the hearts of old.” The poet tells us there is a connection to ancient heroism and virtues. These ideas harken back to a time when heroes were revered for embodying ideals that transcended the mundane. In the context of WWI, we can see how heroes were cut down in droves. Thus, there was more difficulty showing reverence when wholesale slaughter was the name of the game.

Furthermore, “the twilight’s gold” adds a melancholic yet beautiful hue to this imagery, emphasizing the fading light of the hero’s life as it merges with the oncoming night. Similarly, “a bitter remembrance blows in each face,” indicates the sorrow and nostalgia that accompany the passing of a hero. That is to say, these words reflect a profound sense of finality, suggesting that the hero’s life, like the day’s story, has reached its conclusion. This bitter remembrance handles the weight of loss.

Likewise, the dust, symbolic of mortality, and the twilight, representing the transitional period between day and night, add layers of meaning to the portrayal of heroism. “The Last Hero” deals with the theme of heroism, mortality, and the nature of life. As the author states, heroism is more than just doing heroic things. It is also taking part in the human condition, sacrifice, and honoring the past.

Conclusion

Heroism in literature, it seems, though similar across writing styles, means more than bravado and machismo. It can show us how heroes like the Scarlet Pimpernel is capable of great deeds of action and sacrifice. Heroism also shows us how somebody can be soft and caring, and they can still change the world for the better. What is more, those that wish to sacrifice themselves in wartime is expounded upon differently when considering the sacrifice of young soldiers during wartime. Readers can definitely see the difference, but it still resonates the same.