The anti-hero in geographic narratives has been a subject of much debate and criticism in the field of geography. This type of character, who defies traditional hero qualities and values, has been portrayed in many geographic stories, raising questions about its impact on the credibility and value of such narratives. In this article, we will delve into the critiques of the anti-hero in geographic narratives, exploring its potential benefits and drawbacks while providing practical examples.

Firstly, it is important to define what we mean by “anti-hero” in this context. An anti-hero is a protagonist who lacks traditional heroic attributes such as courage, morality, and selflessness. Instead, they possess flaws and questionable morals that often put them at odds with society. This character type has been popularized in literature and film, and its presence in geographic narratives is no exception.

One of the main critiques against the anti-hero in geographic narratives is the lack of authenticity and scientific rigor. As geographers, our goal is to uncover and present the truth about the world, and the portrayal of an anti-hero may undermine this mission. The anti-hero’s actions and decisions may be driven by personal desires and motivations, rather than sound scientific reasoning, leading to a biased and inaccurate representation of geographic phenomena.

For example, in the film “Apocalypse Now,” the anti-hero, Captain Willard, is sent on a mission to assassinate a rogue colonel during the Vietnam War. Throughout the film, Willard’s inner struggles and questionable actions are the focus, overshadowing the actual geography and history of the conflict. This can be problematic as it distorts the actual events and perpetuates stereotypes and misinformation about the region.

Another critique of the anti-hero in geographic narratives is the reinforcement of colonialism and the savior mentality. Many anti-heroes in geographic literature and film are Westerners who are portrayed as saving or changing the lives of people in non-Western regions. This reinforces the notion of a superior Western civilization and perpetuates the idea that these regions are in need of outside intervention and cannot thrive on their own.

An example of this can be seen in Joseph Conrad’s novel “Heart of Darkness,” where the anti-hero, Marlow, ventures into the African jungle to find the elusive Mr. Kurtz and bring him back to civilization. Marlow’s journey is depicted as a heroic endeavor to bring civilization to a “dark” and “primitive” land, perpetuating the concept of Western superiority and the “white man’s burden.”

However, it is important to note that the anti-hero in geographic narratives can also have some positive effects. One of the benefits is its ability to challenge traditional narratives and perspectives. By presenting a flawed and unconventional protagonist, these stories can offer a critical commentary on society and its norms. This can be seen in the critically acclaimed TV series “Breaking Bad,” where the anti-hero, Walter White, challenges societal expectations and the American dream while navigating the criminal underworld.

Moreover, the anti-hero can also humanize geographic stories. In traditional hero narratives, the protagonist is often presented as invincible and perfect, making it difficult for the audience to relate to them. The anti-hero, on the other hand, is flawed, making them more relatable and human, and therefore, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

In Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Treasure Island,” the anti-hero, Long John Silver, is a pirate and a traitor. Still, he is also a father figure to Jim, the protagonist, and the reader is able to empathize with his struggles and motivations. This allows for a more nuanced and realistic representation of human nature and relationships in a geographic story.

In conclusion, the use of the anti-hero in geographic narratives has its share of critiques and controversies, but it also offers unique opportunities for challenging traditional tropes and humanizing stories. However, it is essential to approach this character type with caution and critically examine its impact on the credibility and authenticity of geographic narratives. As geographers, our responsibility is to present accurate and objective information about the world, and the portrayal of the anti-hero must not overshadow this goal.