In his essay The Thematic Paradigm, Robert B. Ray discusses heroism as a dichotomy containing oppsite sided traits. Ray uses the format of a outlaw hero and an official hero for American cinema, usually in conjunction with two people in the film. However, these traits can also be expressed in a single character. Stepping away from Ray’s analysis of American films and literature from decades ago, it is easy to see that this dichotomy still exists today. For example, in the Twilight saga, the hero, Edward Cullen’s character lives in a constant war with his dichotomous traits, being both a vampire (his “natural man”) and a member of society (“civilized man”). Following suite with Ray’s perception of “individualism”, Edward Cullen makes choices to overcome his innerevil and behave in a way that is best for community.
Two-faced Hero
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