AN ANALYSIS OF THE STORY THE HERO
The Hero is a thought-provoking narrative that explores the life and personality of its main character, Julius, who undergoes a dramatic transformation over the course of the story. The plot centres on Julius's rude complaint about the school's food, which leads to his expulsion from school. Within this narrative, Julius's character
Julius is introduced as a stubborn and self-centred character who takes pride in his actions. As he walks out of the school authorities' office after his rude complaint, he is aware of the scrutiny he faces and deliberately alters his demeanour to appear defiant. His sense of self-importance is evident as he imagines himself as a conqueror, walking with an air of triumph in the deserted quadrangle. Julius is not a character who readily accepts authority, and his actions border on arrogance.
Although Julius views himself as a hero, his presence generates fear and tension among the students. When he enters his classroom, silence is shattered, reflecting the fear that accompanies his reputation as a bully. The aspect of being a bully comes out clearly when his classmates laugh even when he tells a joke that is not humorous. He thrives on the attention he receives, particularly from his classmates who gather around him, seeking to learn about his exploits. Julius relishes this moment, hoping it will make him appear more heroic, though he is disappointed that the girls do not flock to him as the boys do. He enjoys the praise and adulation, fostering his belief in personal glory.
Julius is portrayed as a narcissist who enjoys personal glory and is driven by self-interest. He withholds details about his expulsion, as he fears that revealing the truth may diminish his heroic image. He waters down the story, suggesting that "there's nothing to tell." This reluctance to be completely honest showcases his insecurity, as he is more interested in preserving his image than in revealing the unvarnished truth.
Dora is a central figure in Julius's world. He is captivated by her and believes that she is equally captivated by him, although he chooses to torment her with his affections. Julius's obsession with Dora showcases his sadistic tendencies, as he takes pleasure in causing emotional distress. He envisions himself as a romantic figure who can win the hearts of all the girls, even imagining that they would leave their boyfriends for him.
The story masterfully employs suspense and dramatic irony to keep the reader engaged. The intense silence in the classroom upon Julius's entrance, followed by the revelation of his expulsion, creates tension. However, this tension is compounded by the students' disbelief, particularly Dora, who accuses Julius of joking. The tension underscores the inner turmoil within Julius and serves as a narrative device that holds the reader's attention.
As Julius heads home after his expulsion, he begins to feel regret and considers the losses he faces. He realises the emptiness of his actions and the consequences of losing the opportunity for education. The once-powerful speech he delivered now seems ineffective, and Dora's tears, once viewed as tears of love, appear to be tears of pity.
The story not only delves into Julius's character but also exposes the dysfunctional dynamics within his family and school. He lives with a stepmother whose bickering voice contributes to the gloom in his life. The school, despite the headmaster's accurate assessment of Julius, chooses to expel him, highlighting the failure of the educational system to nurture troubled students.
The reference to the setting sun and the long journey that Julius has to undertake to get home serves as powerful symbols that mirror his life's trajectory and the consequences of his actions. These images reflect the impending darkness and challenges that Julius will face in his life.
The setting sun represents the end of a period of glory and illumination in Julius's life. It signifies the conclusion of his short- lived triumph, which is marked by his expulsion from school. The setting sun also hints at the decline of his personal glory, as he transitions from the "hero" he believed himself to be to a figure filled with regret. The setting sun creates a sense of foreboding, suggesting that Julius's actions will cast a shadow over his future.
Julius seem to be facing difficulties ahead. The long journey home symbolises the difficult and uncertain path that Julius will have to tread in the wake of his expulsion. The fact that he must travel a considerable distance underscores the challenges and obstacles that lie ahead. It mirrors the arduous journey of self-discovery and redemption that he will need to embark upon. The journey also symbolises the distance he has created between himself and the opportunities that education could have provided.
The name Julius and the nickname "Julius Little Caesar" carry significant connotations that shed light on the character's psychology and the consequences of his actions. It reflects the character's sense of self-importance. Historically, figures like Julius Caesar are associated with power, ambition, and conquest. Julius identifies with this name, viewing himself as a conqueror. However, this association also hints at Julius's tragic downfall, just
as Julius Caesar met a tragic end. The name symbolises his hubris and how it ultimately leads to his downfall.
The nickname given to Julius by the principal, "Julius Little Caesar," carries a certain irony. While it may initially seem like a compliment, it is, in fact, a reference to his arrogance and audacity. It signifies that Julius's behaviour is seen as a miniature version of the grandeur associated with figures like Julius Caesar. This nickname foreshadows his downfall, as even great empires can crumble.
While the idea of a school being referred to as a "holy place" may carry a positive connotation regarding the value of education and personal growth, it's important to consider the critique that arises when this concept is examined in light of its practical application. Firstly, it underscores the significance of education and knowledge. It emphasises that the school is a sacred space where students have the opportunity to gain enlightenment and transform their lives. By labelling the school as a "holy place," the story highlights the importance of education as a pathway to personal growth and success. Julius's expulsion from this sacred space marks his separation from this opportunity and signals the consequences of his actions. However, regarding the school this way assumes that students come to school holy, ready to fit within the school setup. It ignores the view that children come from different walks of lives and that it is the duty of the school to mould the students into responsible citizens.
Although the notion of a school as a "holy place" may be intended to emphasise the importance of education, it also carries potential pitfalls. Schools should be institutions that welcome and nurture all students, irrespective of their background, and should promote inclusivity and equality. The author here is mocking of western education system particularly during the colonial era. It is a system that is flawed because it treats errant members of the society as outcasts.
PRACTISE QUESTIONS
How does the author use characterisation to portray the transformation of the protagonist, Julius, in The Hero?
In The Hero, how does the ironic reference of "Julius Little Caesar" as a nickname foreshadow his eventual downfall and character development?
How does the portrayal of the school as a "holy place" carry situational irony by contrasting the idealised notion of a sacred space with the reality of students like Julius?
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