On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and The Heroic in History by Thomas Carlyle

Introduction

On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and The Heroic in History by Thomas Carlyle examines how heroes and heroic figures have shaped the world around them. Carlyle’s approach is a mixture of his historical research of specific figures and cultures along with his philosophical and religious beliefs. Through his view of history, Carlyle argues that heroes, through their high ideals and inspiring lives, helped to shape and influence the societies we see today. By exploring themes such as greatness, courage, devotion, and authority, he encourages his readers to think about their own political and social beliefs.

Synopsis

In On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and The Heroic in History, Thomas Carlyle looks to the past to explain the heroic men and women that have shaped the world we live in today. He examines different cultures and their beliefs about heroes, and tries to understand the universal concept of heroism. Carlyle is specifically interested in the idea of great men and women being worshipped as superhuman figures, and examines the power and influence that these figures have had on societies. He argues that these figures have provided inspiration to achieve great things and have laid the foundations of our civilizations.

Throughout the book, Carlyle looks at different heroes and heroic figures from different time periods. He examines figures such as Napoleon, Caesar, Luther, and Homer, and how they were worshipped as divinely ordained leaders. While Carlyle admires the accomplishments of these individuals, he also acknowledges the need to be wary of ‘Hero-Worship’, taking into account different socio-economic and political contexts that may have enabled or hindered the success of these people.

Themes

On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and The Heroic in History covers a variety of themes that help to support Carlyle’s argument of the power of heroes. He outlines the idea of ‘Greatness’, suggesting that some individuals possess the power to shape history in ways that are far greater than any of their predecessors. He also looks to the idea of ‘Courage’, acknowledging the risks that many heroic figures have taken in order to achieve great things.

Furthermore, Carlyle examines the concept of ‘Devotion’, noting how some figures have been willing to give their life in order to bring about change and progress for their society. He also looks at the idea of ‘Authority’ and questions the power that leaders and great figures had over those around them.

Conclusion

On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and The Heroic in History serves as an interesting insight into the lives and accomplishments of past heroic figures. Carlyle expresses his admiration and appreciation for the figures that have shaped our civilizations, while also willingly acknowledging the need to be mindful of certain political and social contexts.

In his exploration of the heroism of the past, Carlyle hopes to inspire his readers to assess the value of characters and figures in the present day. Through his examination of greatness, courage, devotion, and authority, Carlyle champions the idea of heroes as positive, inspiring figures that can bring about positive change and progress in our world.