The final novel, "Beloved", was full of heroism and personal growth. Sethe truly lived a hard life and was in a constant battle with her personal demons and ghosts of the past. The horrifying effects of slavery on the family unit are clear. The dead child and memories of slavery constantly haunt Sethe. She is constantly described as having eyes of iron, and her refusal to run anymore shows some of her determination-as does the story of her successful escape from slavery while pregnant. Sethe partially stays in the house because she feels a bond to the place: it is her own, ghost and all, and no one can take that away. .
One of the major things that sets Sethe apart form the other readings is the idea that she is driven by her past. Her memories and actions seem to be what keeps her alive and going. While Douglass and Jacobs are focused on the future, Sethe is trapped in the past and cannot break away to see a bright future. Both her emotional and physical scars are like a constant reminder that binds her to feel the old pain. .
Sethe is a symbol of female heroism is the fact that she is a strong driven woman who did manage to escape the evil chains of slavery. She has her own life now and takes care of herself. She is beautiful, strong, and proud. .
In conclusion, each of the readings does a wonderful and unique job to show and help the reader understand the heroics of the American slave as both a male and female. Douglass was a prime example of the typical ideal hero. Jacobs stood up for herself and was morally a true hero and example for others. Sethe was a driven woman who battled her personal ghosts and escaped slavery. Each character was their own individual and proved to themselves to be the best and rise above society and their fears. Although they were very different they all shared one thing in common, a strong drive and vision for success that could not be broken or taken away. They were true American slave heroes and an inspiration for all.
