The American Hero

The American Hero

For many years the American Hero has filled the silver screen and wide screened television sets, along with shelves of countless bookstores. Audiences love to see the protagonist overcome great odds, defeat the forces of evil, and save the beautiful girl at the last second. The character of the American Hero however, is not a new idea. James Cooper, in the 1800's, created the archetype of the American Hero. Natty Bumpo, also called Deerslayer, embodied many qualities of the great American Hero. Modern day heroes are simply following the example set by Cooper's creation.

Two qualities that many heroes possess are bravery and honesty. In the excerpt "Deerslayer Escapes", Natty Bumpo exhibits these two traits when he returns to accept his punishment for killing a great Huron warrior. His punishment for killing is death. Knowing this and still returning to the tribe shows tremendous bravery. After Deerslayer returns, Cooper writes the reaction of the tribe. The leader, Rivenoak, describes Natty of being brave and honest, by saying, " Paleface, you are honest. We shall treat you as a brave." Natty Bumpo speaks of his own honesty when he refuses to take their compromise for death. The solution is against what Deerslayer believes in so he doesn't go along with the plan.

Heroes are also expected to stick to their beliefs, regardless of consequences. After killing the Huron's best warrior, the Hurons offer Natty a solution. He must marry the widow of the fallen warrior. The reason is because there is no one to hunt or provide for the family. Deerslayer doesn't mind providing for the family, but refuses to marry the widow, who is old enough to be his mother. He responds with this "As for feeding the children, I would do that cheerfully, could it be done without discredit."

The stereotypical hero is usually skilled with