Heroism
Heroism - meaning Summary
Heroism as Self-discipline
Emerson contrasts surface luxury with true greatness, arguing that genuine heroism rejects indulgence. Ornate pleasures belong to knaves and fools, while the heroic endures hardship, self-denial, and inner struggle. Power and status bring burdens rather than comforts; greatness requires constant self-discipline and sacrifice. The poem presents heroism as an inward, demanding moral practice rather than outward splendor.
Read Complete AnalysesRuby wine is drunk by knaves, Sugar spends to fatten slaves, Rose and vine-leaf deck buffoons; Thunder-clouds are Jove's festoons, Drooping oft in wreaths of dread, Lightning-knotted round his head; The hero is not fed on sweets, Daily his own heart he eats; Chambers of the great are jails, And head-winds right for royal sails.
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