Heroes

Or, how to twist a word

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

b: an illustrious warrior

c: a person admired for achievements and noble qualities

d: one who shows great courage

2a: the principal character in a literary or dramatic work

The term has changed meaning to include essential workers whose lives are risked to keep society functioning.

Who needs a raise when you can have a poster?

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…