Definition Manipulation
“Hero” has a new definition since COVID. The classic definition is:
1a: a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability
c: a person admired for achievements and noble qualities
The term has changed meaning to include essential workers whose lives are risked to keep society functioning.
In 1957, Victor Klemperer analyzed words and how their meanings are changed to promote one idea over another, including the word “hero.” “The hero was originally someone who performed deeds which benefitted mankind.” This changed to “a superficial, distorted and poisoned heroism, witness the flashy cups and clinking medals, witness the bloated words of indulgent adoration, witness the relentless killing…”
A New Definition and a New Purpose
Today, we can see an intentional shift i…
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