A Hero and Some Other Folks

"A Hero and Some Other Folks" by William A. Quayle is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The work appears to explore the concept of heroism, comparing historical and literary figures, such as Jean Valjean, with a focus on how their actions reflect moral consciousness and societal values. Quayle delves into the evolution of heroism from classical times to the modern age, questioning the attributes that define a hero. The opening of the text introduces the notion that the hero is an essential aspect of human experience, relating this to figures like Jean Valjean from Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables." Quayle argues that modern heroes differ from their classical counterparts, lacking traits like conscience and moral rectitude. In exploring Valjean's transformation from a hardened criminal to a compassionate benefactor, Quayle emphasizes the redemptive quality of heroism in contemporary literature. This examination not only reflects on the nature of heroism but also presents a broader commentary on morality, society, and individual redemption, all of which set the stage for a deeper exploration in the subsequent essays.