1. According to the course notes, realistic fiction “reflects a conflict with a society threatened by rapid change and a breakdown of traditional values.” (Perkins) A realistic hero would be someone who has seen the worst of what society has to offer during this time period. As a hero, I believe that even though things are changing rapidly and with this "collapse of traditional values" (Perkins), they are still strong enough to face and overcome them. Although the definition of a hero was not outlined in the course notes provided, I believe Aunt Rachel fits the role of a realistic hero perfectly. In Twain's story, Aunt Rachel is a realistic hero because she aligns, even unknowingly, with this definition of realism. Aunt Rachel's struggles are something Mister C will probably never be able to relate to, and even though the Civil War times have changed, from the early days of slavery, to letting her become a cook for the generals of the civil war. It was a struggle that would surely have broken anyone, but as a realistic hero, it seems Aunt Rachel rose above them and became what a hero should be. By definition, a hero is a person of distinguished qualities who is admired for courageous acts. This is not to say that Mr. C is not a distinguished man or does not have any courageous deeds to his credit, but after reading the story, one can assume that Mr. C's struggles in no way compare to Aunt Rachel's, which is the irony. of history. Mr. C is Aunt Rachel's master, and she is his slave, and yet she is the hero. Mr. C reinforces this by seemingly being taken aback by her bright, positive attitude. However, even though Aunt Rachel keeps her spirits up, she is aware that her life has been a struggle. This f...... middle of paper ......nkowitz, Jerome and Patricia B Wallace. The Norton Anthology of American Literature. Flight. Volume C. New York: Norton, 2007, 2003, 1998, 1994, 1989, 1985, 1979. 5 vols. Twain, Mark. Mark Twain: a true story, repeated word for word as I heard it. 1874. June 30, 2010. Perkins, Dr. “American Realism.” Prince George's County Community College. Largo. June 2010. The web. July 5, 2010. Dr. Perkins. "Naturalism." Prince George's County Community College. Largo. July 2010. The web. July 5 2010.