In my Curiosity for Strategists class, we recently spend a class discussing the hero’s journey and famous heroes and their journeys that we’ve seen in Mythology.
Taking it a step further, I began thinking of modern day heroes and their role is society. It’s interesting to note that although most of the heroes have been successful and popular, it seems that some sort of tragic event occurs to each hero. Here’s what I’ve got:
1. Celebrity Hero: Oprah. I see Oprah as the ultimate celebrity hero. She makes people feel good, she succeeded because of hard work and determination, she gives back to the community and empowers women to embrace natural beauty.
Tragic Event: Oprah and her beef scandal.
2. Literature Hero: J.K. Rowling. Harry Potter has shaped Generation Y. She has created a whole new world which has allowed us to relate to one another on a variety of levels. Not only does the young generation read her works, but older individuals enjoy her writing just as much.
Tragic Event: Many religious groups opposed the books and had Harry Potter banned from libraries.
3. Political Hero: Barack Obama. In a time of desperation, Obama has stepped in and taken on the role as a uniter. For many, Obama is the answer to our country’s problems and is idolized in the eyes of many.
Tragic Event: the questionable comments from his pastor have sent mixed messages and have many questioning the validity of Obama’s platform
4. Music Hero: Eric Whitacre. Whitacre has created a buzz in the choral world that I have never heard before from a composer. His youth combined with his ability to create complex and intricate musical scores has placed Whitacre in a position of musical God. Choral music lovers throughout the world can agree that Whitacre is one of the most genius composers in all of history.
Tragic Event: Whitacre began to stray from his traditional choral music to more modern and contemporary pieces. Many Whitacre fans were not pleased with the transformation.
