The Encarta World English Dictionary defines a person's individuality asa specific personality, character, or characteristic that distinguishes one person or thing from another.? Thus, the word unique comes to mind. All of us like to think of ourselves as being different from others for the simple that when we examine ourselves, we conclude that everyone is different from each other. Consequently, we associate the wordindividual? to each of us. At a closer look, though, we find that we are not unique or individuals, rather a reflection of what is acceptable in society. After this conclusion, then, who influences us? We already established that we are different in character from everyone around us. Then, there is only one other possibility, that television is the factor that influences society the most. More than close friends. One of the influence forms is the media, such as televised news. This form of news, like the nightly broadcast of CNN, not only influences the general public, but also shapes the norms of thought of every person, especially in the American culture. One of the ways that such influence is done is by having the same qualities to identify with the audience as a direct result of incorporating theHero Myth,? better know as the?Hero Story?? that Linda Seger describes in her article Creating the Myth (311).
First of all lets establish the descriptions that Seger identifies in order to create the?Hero Story.?? .
1.The hero begins as a nonhero,? more or less like everyday us (309). That is, an ordinary individual who goes by with his or her life in the usual manner. .
2. Something happens in thehero's life?.[that acts as] a catalyst [to] set the story [or chain of event] into motion,? (310). .
3. Time of uncertainty for the hero, but eventually he or she is motivated to enter into the quest. .
4. Something or somebody helps the hero in time of trouble. .
5. Obstacles and hardships are presented.