Peter Rabbit's Lack of Heroism

In Beatrix Potter's The Tale of Peter Rabbit, the character of Peter Rabbit has sparked significant debate among critics about whether he can be considered a hero. In traditional literature, heroes are known for their courage and bravery, which define their identity and drive their actions. However, Peter Rabbit doesn’t quite fit this pattern, as he is portrayed as mischievous and disobedient, which complicates his status as a true hero.

Lack of Heroic Qualities

One of the primary reasons critics hesitate to label Peter Rabbit as a hero is his lack of traditional heroic qualities. Peter's main actions in the story are driven by curiosity and disobedience rather than bravery or a sense of duty. He ignores his mother's warnings and enters Mr. McGregor's garden, not to save anyone or achieve a noble goal, but simply to eat vegetables.

His actions lead to trouble, and rather than confronting challenges with courage, he spends most of the story trying to escape the consequences of his actions. His journey is marked by fear and desperation rather than the bravery typically associated with heroic figures.

No Clear Moral Victory

Moreover, Peter Rabbit's narrative lacks a clear moral victory, unlike traditional heroes who achieve such an outcome. Peter's "victory" is simply surviving the ordeal and escaping Mr. McGregor.

While he learns a lesson about the consequences of disobedience, his actions do not lead to significant positive change or growth, which is often expected of a hero. His escape is not a victory over evil or a noble deed but rather a narrow avoidance of the dangers he brought upon himself.

Selfishness

Another aspect that complicates Peter Rabbit's status as a hero is his focus on his own safety rather than helping others. He is primarily concerned with escaping danger rather than achieving a greater good or aiding others.

Heroes are typically driven by a desire to protect others, right wrongs, or achieve something beyond their own survival. Peter's self-centered approach makes it difficult to categorize him as a hero.

References

Montgomery, H., & Watson, N. (Eds.) 2009, 'Beatrix Potter, The Tale of Peter Rabbit', Children's Literature, 1st ed, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes.