What makes a character one of the greatest heroes in fiction?

Another factor is the impact the character has on the reader or the cultural significance. Characters like Superman have become symbols of hope and justice. They inspire generations and are recognized all over the world, which cements their status as great fictional characters.

A great villain in fiction often has a strong motivation for their evil deeds. For example, Magneto in the X - Men comics has a motivation rooted in his past experiences of persecution. He wants to protect mutants from humans, but his extreme methods make him a villain. His backstory gives him depth and makes his actions more understandable, even if not justifiable.

Strength of character is a key factor. A great female character like Katniss Everdeen in 'The Hunger Games' is physically and mentally strong. She can handle difficult situations and is not afraid to fight for what she believes in. Another aspect is intelligence. Hermione Granger is extremely intelligent, which helps her solve numerous problems. Also, the ability to grow and change. Elizabeth Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice' starts with certain prejudices but through her experiences, she grows and becomes a more understanding person.

The ability to grow and change is key. Take Harry Potter. He starts as an orphan boy living under the stairs, but through his years at Hogwarts, he develops into a powerful wizard and a true hero. He overcomes his fears, makes sacrifices, and learns about friendship and loyalty, which are all important aspects that contribute to his status as a great fictional character.

Sherlock Holmes can be considered one of the greatest fictional heroes. His brilliant mind allows him to solve the most complex mysteries. Then there's Wonder Woman. She is a symbol of female power, with her super strength, combat skills and her lasso of truth. Also, Katniss Everdeen from 'The Hunger Games' is a great hero. She volunteers in the Hunger Games to save her sister and becomes a symbol of resistance against the Capitol.

A great hero in a romance novel also has charm. He can make the heroine, and the readers, fall in love with him easily. This could be through his sense of humor, like a hero who always has a witty comeback or a funny story to tell.

A cool character in fiction often has unique abilities. For example, Superman with his super strength, flight, and heat vision. These abilities set him apart from ordinary characters and make him cool.

Size relative to the setting. For example, in a story about a normal human town, a giant like the one in 'Jack and the Beanstalk' would be considered a large character because he stands out so much compared to the normal - sized humans. His huge height and mass make him a dominant figure in that fictional space.

A character can be considered one of the biggest in fiction if they have a widespread influence. For example, characters like Mickey Mouse are huge in fiction. He has been around for decades and is recognized globally. His image is used in countless products and his stories are loved by children and adults alike. Another factor is the depth of their character. A character like Hamlet is complex and full of internal conflict. His soliloquies are some of the most famous in literature, and his indecision and quest for revenge make him a character that has been analyzed and studied for centuries. Also, a character's ability to transcend their original medium is important. For instance, Batman has been in comics, movies, TV shows, and video games, constantly evolving yet remaining an iconic figure.

One factor is their intelligence. A great detective like Sherlock Holmes can quickly analyze evidence and draw accurate conclusions. For example, he can tell a person's occupation just from the calluses on their hands. Another is their unique personality. Hercule Poirot's fastidiousness and his pride in his 'little grey cells' add to his charm as a detective.