In the grand stories of history, myths, and reality, there are always two sides—the hero and the villain. But who decides which is which? Is the hero truly good, or just the one who won? Is the villain truly evil, or just misunderstood?
Leonard Vale stood atop the ruined city, flames reflecting in his cold eyes. He had been labeled a villain, a destroyer. Yet, in his mind, he was the only one willing to do what was necessary. "The world calls me a monster," he whispered. "But monsters only exist because of the failures of so-called heroes."
The line between heroism and villainy is thinner than most believe. Psychology reveals that morality is not as black and white as we are taught:
1. Perspective Defines Morality – A hero to one is a villain to another. Revolutionaries who fight against oppression are seen as heroes by some, but as threats by those in power. History is written by the victors, shaping who is remembered as righteous.
2. Ends vs. Means – Heroes often seek to protect, while villains are portrayed as those who destroy. But what if a villain's destruction prevents a greater disaster? And what if a hero's protection only prolongs suffering? The debate of "the greater good" often blurs the lines.
3. Emotional Motivations – Many so-called villains are driven by loss, injustice, or personal pain. Their actions, though extreme, stem from real human emotions—anger, grief, and betrayal. A hero, too, may be driven by ego or a desire for recognition, making their motives less noble than they appear.
4. Moral Dilemmas and Justifications – People justify their actions based on their beliefs. A villain may see their cruelty as a necessary sacrifice for a better future. A hero may commit terrible acts in the name of righteousness. Who, then, is truly right?
5. The Shadow Within – Every hero has the potential for darkness, just as every villain once had the capacity for good. Many who fight for justice eventually become what they swore to destroy, blinded by their own righteousness.
Leonard turned away as sirens blared in the distance. The so-called heroes were coming to stop him, to paint him as the villain once again. But he did not care. "I do what must be done," he murmured. "And history will judge me as it always does—through the eyes of those who win."
Perhaps, in the end, there are no heroes or villains—only people, shaped by their choices and the world around them.