Defining a Hero

                                                              Defining a Hero

Jane Austen’s heroines are, usually the focal point of the story plot-line, in how the character develops into a young woman at the end of the novel. Heroes are strategically placed in the direction of the female lead character; in order to complete the marriage plot proposal. The unique perspective, Austen allows the reader to explore is the “realistic” aspects behind her characters. Edward Ferrars, brings a unique perspective to the stereotypical characterization of the term, hero. The reader becomes engaged to understand a character, who does not match up to the title of “hero” imposed by the author. Edward’s demur keeps him under the radar, fitting to his personality. A particular passage stood out to the reader, because of the social implications disbursed upon Edward’s future. Austen elaborates the reader on Edward’s great expectations: “But he was neither fitted by abilities nor disposition to answer the wishes of his mother and sister, who longed to see him distinguished −as− they hardly knew what. They wanted him to make a fine figure in the world in some manner or other” (Austen 14).  The author’s statement, stands out within the whole passage, because Edwards’ mother seems conjure up an idea about her son without having a concise goal in mind.  The abrupt use of dashes in between “as” illustrates how Mrs. Ferrars’ doesn’t know what she wants her son to be, it also to brings together two ideas, which don’t match up. Austen is cleverly describing the relationship between Edward and his mother. The significance of the passage allows the reader to understand the unique social implications Ferrars is forced upon, he doesn’t seem to have control over his own future. Edward is unlike any hero, readers have come across in other novels. Austen fabricates a displaced hero, who lacks courage and security. What is the importance of Edward Ferrars in the novel, especially under the title role of hero?