What is a contemporary hero?

A contemporary hero is a person who overcomes danger or significant obstacles despite coming from a disadvantaged position. The actions of a hero usually require some form of self-sacrifice as heroes are typically motivated by the desire to achieve a greater good.

Most contemporary heroes are found in stories based on a structure where the hero usually embarks on his quest, facing significant tests along the way, that eventually results in a happy ending. Most critics of contemporary heroes in American fiction claim that such characters distract people from recognizing the real heroes who have transformed American society and its culture.