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How Does Grant Wiggins Show Heroism

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"A hero is someone who does something for others. He does something that other men don’t and cant to. He is different from other men. He is above other men. No matter who those other men are, the hero, no matter who he is, is above them." Our actions and reactions in challenging situations reveal our character, and sometimes, we get the opportunity to display heroism. Grant Wiggins' own interpretation of heroism suggests that he himself became a hero. Grant's journey to becoming a hero involves several key components, including obtaining an education and pursuing a career as a teacher, undergoing significant psychological growth and transformation, and offering guidance and support to Jefferson in his pursuit of a dignified death.

Grant undergoes …show more content…

Despite the fact that Jefferson has been wrongfully accused of murder and sentenced to death, Grant helps him to see that he is still a human being with dignity and worth. One way in which Grant helps Jefferson find his dignity is by teaching him to take pride in his appearance. When Grant first meets Jefferson in prison, he notices that Jefferson is wearing tattered clothes and has not bothered to shave. Grant tells Jefferson, "You're a man…you have to be clean…You have to be neat." This illustrates that Grant sees Jefferson as more than just a condemned man. He wants Jefferson to see himself as a person with value and worth, not a "hog." Grant's attempt to change Jefferson's perception of himself demonstrates how he is the hero of this novel. Furthermore, Grant encourages Jefferson to think about his legacy and the impact he will have on those around him. As Grant says, "What you leave behind is how the world will judge you." This indicates Grant's desire for Jefferson to understand that, while he may not have control over his fate, he does have power over how he is remembered. He encourages him to do it, especially for his godmother, Miss Emma, and the other members of their community. He urges him to consider his legacy and reminds him of his ancestors' resilience and endurance. In conclusion, Grant Wiggins embodies heroism in "A Lesson Before Dying" by counseling Jefferson to die with dignity. Through his encouragement, his guidance, and his belief in Jefferson's worth, Grant helps Jefferson see himself as a person with value and dignity, even in the face of

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