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How the Antihero’s Journey Can Help You Overcome Shame in Real Life
An overview of Christopher Bartley’s Hero’s Journey alternative to help people navigate real-life mistakes or humiliating experiences
The Antihero in Literature vs. Real Life
I previously wrote about Ulysses S. Grant, a former U.S. General and President who was either celebrated for his military leadership or maligned for his seemingly wavering politics — sometimes in the same conversation. I considered him an antihero, but because of his historical persona, he may feel like a literary figure rather than a real person with real issues. This perception makes the difference between seeing a hero as superman saving the people of Metropolis or a fireman saving a family from a burning house.
In literature, the antihero is the central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic attributes like honesty, bravery, and moral integrity. It is still relatable in real life, but I’ve attempted to create more concrete parameters to help modern people relate to a more realistic persona of an antihero.
In real life, the antihero is someone who has misappropriated their strengths, talents, and gifts, or he has misused his calling in life. Both lead to…
