Villain or Hero?

Villain or Hero?

Revolution is the culmination of mistreatment, hatred, and oppression. It has been present in human nature since the beginning of time. Is revolution necessarily a bad thing though? It has created nations, saved people from unjust rulers, and given people the hope and will for a better life. In Herman Melville’s novella, “Benito Cerino”, revolution gave the slaves hope and salvation from the institution of slavery. The slaves are turned from the oppressed to the oppressor and run the ship while not giving the whites much freedom. When does the revolt turn from being an act of terror to a valiant fight for ones rights? The most notable and prolific example to us as Americans is the United States’ annexation from Great Brittan.

The United States of America was formed through revolution. A revolution against the British who unfairly taxed, mistreated, and attempted to control the new world while not even present. What we consider our founding fathers were mere traitors against the crown who would not put up with the torment any longer. These men went against any authority that was in front of them to save the people who put trust them. The British thought that they controlled the land by wielding the bigger stick, but with the colonization of the East Coast, far underestimated the army that the colonists could provide. It is truly amazing what common hatred and oppression will cause people to do. From public humiliation to brutal taxation, the American Colonists felt they had suffered enough and joined together to create their own force. But is this a force from villains or were these men heroes?

In Melville’s story, Babo is much like those that founded our nation. He led the oppressed people out of harms way and into a position of power. Slaves although considered to be the lowest of the low, were still people who maintained feelings as well as the ability to rise above their oppressors. Due to their social status and what the slaves had been brought up believing, the Spanish crew believed they could control them even being outnumbered six to one. Given hope and a purpose, from their leader, the slaves rose together and over took the ship. Where these slaves who took control of the ship villains or were they heroes?

Personally I believe that these men were heroes, doing whatever they could to protect the people that received brutally unfair treatments while under command of these leaders. The only part that I sincerely believe should be considered villainous was the retaliation and mistreatment the revolt leaders instilled on those that oppressed them. Once they were in a position of power they wanted revenge for the pain and suffering that caused the revolution. People will always find a way to make right in situations of complete oppression. But what do you think, are these examples heroes or villains?