Memorable Heroes: Courage, Conviction & Vulnerability

I guest blogged earlier this week at Book Lovers Inc. about men and what makes a hero stand out. So today I thought I’d continue with that theme and give a few examples of memorable heroes.

I find all types of men interesting and sexy, but I’ve come to the conclusion that a man who displays courage, conviction, and vulnerability, even if it’s hidden underneath all the walls he’s built, is one of the sexiest types of men.

They are imperfect people who are vulnerable, honest, funny, and caring, and they don’t mind showing those sides of themselves, at least once in a while. They’ll speak up when it really counts -- when they believe strongly in something or when someone needs them.

Who are these guys?
I thought it might be fun to share some of the fictional characters from television and movies that stand out for me. They are vulnerable yet tough, courageous guys you can’t help but fall in love with.

Clark Kent, Superman
“Really, Lois, supposing that man had shot you? Is it worth risking your life over ten dollars, two credit cards, a hairbrush, and a lipstick?”

Atticus Finch, To Kill A Mockingbird
“Courage is not a man with a gun in his hand. It's knowing you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do.”

Johnny Castle, Dirty Dancing
“Nobody puts Baby in a corner.”

Malcolm Reynolds, Firefly
“Someone ever tries to kill you, you try to kill 'em right back! Wife or no, you are no one's property to be tossed aside. You got the right same as anyone to live and try to kill people.”

George Bailey, It's a Wonderful Life
“Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this rabble you're talking about... they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. Well, is it too much to have them work and pay and live and die in a couple of decent rooms and a bath? Anyway, my father didn't think so. People were human beings to him. But to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they're cattle. Well in my book, my father died a much richer man than you'll ever be!”

George Hazard, North and South
[to Orry Main] “I've missed you, old friend.”

Vinny Gambini, My Cousin Vinny
“When you look at the bricks from the right angle, they're as thin as this playing card. His whole case is an illusion, a magic trick. It has to be an illusion, 'cause you're innocent. Nobody - I mean nobody - pulls the wool over the eyes of a Gambini, especially this one. Give me a chance, one chance. Let me question the first witness. If after that point, you don't think that I'm the best man for the job, fire me then and there. I'll leave quietly, no grudges. All I ask is for that one chance. I think you should give it to me.”

Hawkeye, M*A*S*H
“I will not carry a gun, Frank. When I got thrown into this war I had a clear understanding with the Pentagon: no guns. I'll carry your books, I'll carry a torch, I'll carry a tune, I'll carry on, carry over, carry forward, Cary Grant, cash and carry, carry me back to Old Virginia, I'll even 'hari-kari' if you show me how, but I will not carry a gun!”

Han Solo, Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope
“No! Stop, Chewie, stop! Chewie! Chewie this won't help me! Hey! Save your strength. There'll be another time. The Princess. You have to take care of her. You hear me? Huh?”

Indiana Jones, Raiders of the Lost Ark
“Snakes. Why'd it have to be snakes?”


So what do you think of this list? What characters would you add?

Sloan Parker
www.sloanparker.com