Can an Evil Individual Be Considered a Hero?

Is it possible for a villain to carry the weight of heroism? The answer, depending on your lens, can be a resounding yes. In fact, the line between hero and villain is often blurred, and an evil individual may don the cloak of a hero depending on the narrative and the perspective of the world around them.

Historical Figures: Heroes, Villains, or Antiheroes?

Think of famous historical figures like the James brothers, Frank and Jesse, or notorious figures like Clyde Barrow. In their time, these individuals were revered as outlaws and were often referred to as anti-heroes or frontier outlaws. They operated on the fringes of society, engaging in deeds that today might be seen as downright evil.

The legendary Robin Hood is another example. In his era, systemic oppression reigned, and his acts of theft from the rich and distribution to the poor were seen as acts of heroism. However, if considered solely from the perspective of modern society, he would certainly be seen as a villain.

Fictional Characters: Heroes with a Dark Side

Fiction offers a rich tapestry of characters who challenge the traditional dichotomy between good and evil. One of the quintessential examples is Guts from the manga Berserk. Guts is a protagonist who has experienced an immense amount of trauma and has a deep-seated desire for vengeance. His actions are rooted in understandable motives, but they also border on ruthlessness. Despite his dark character, readers and critics often find him relatable and heroic due to his struggles and eventual softening of character.

Guts's appearance is naturally dark; he is imposing, always in dark clothing, and exudes an air of mysteriousness. But it is his backstory, not just his looks, that defines him. His rough exterior is a result of endless pain and trauma, and his allegiance to a higher cause often ensures that he is ultimately seen as a hero.

The Role of Perspective in Defining Heroes and Villains

The question of whether a character can be evil and still be a hero depends largely on the narrative's perspective and the reader's or viewer's point of view. In the case of the lore surrounding Star Wars, the Empire and its leaders Palpatine and Darth Vader are typically villians. However, when delving into the Star Wars Legends, a different perspective emerges. The Empire is portrayed as a reaction to the threat from a superior species beyond the galaxy, making the Death Star's existence less of a stretch in the context of galactic defense.

Additionally, consider the point of view of the Rebel Alliance. While the Empire is a tyrannical force, with the death toll and slavery inherent in their regime, the Rebellion is not without its questionable methods. The Rebels' approach often involves conscripting innocent individuals into service, a practice that might be viewed as unethical by many.

The conflict of good versus evil is further complicated when examining the issue of conquest. Take, for example, a fictional kingdom that seeks to conquer its neighbors. From the perspective of the conquerors, their actions may be seen as liberating and fair. Meanwhile, the conquered people might view it as tyranny and oppression. The balance is thus heavily influenced by one's perspective.

As Obi-Wan Kenobi once said, "you'll find that many of the truths we hold dear depend greatly on our point of view." This quote encapsulates the complex interplay of heroism and villainy, highlighting the fluid nature of these concepts.

Ultimately, whether a character can be considered a hero despite their actions depends on the broader narrative, the author's intent, and the audience's interpretation. So, while some heroes may wear the shadows, and some villains may shine with a noble light, the line between the two is often a matter of perspective.