WHAT IS THE BYRONIC HERO?
Chris Lucas, journal: “Byronic Heroes, Yesterday and Today” from the Fall 2003 Research projects One of the more commonly cited definitions has been developed by Peter Thorslev in his book The Byronic Hero. Essentially, Thorslev defines the character as a rebellious person who typically displays several dark qualities. The hero appears to be larger than life and displays superior intelligence, all the while remaining extremely sensitive and emotional. Thorslev points out that normally, the hero must overcome some traumatic event through which the loss of his titanic passions, his pride, and his certainty of self-identity, he also loses his status as [a traditional] hero” (187). Thorslev adds to his definition, pointing out that the Byronic hero is normally separated from mainstream society. In some instances, the hero is forced out by society, at other times he chooses his own isolation. Additionally, the character displays superior intellect and a strong emotional connection to certai
