A reluctant hero is a character who is initially hesitant or unwilling to take on the role of a hero. Instead of eagerly jumping into action, they often feel unprepared or doubt their abilities. This type of hero usually has personal struggles or fears that make them resistant to embracing their destiny, yet circumstances force them to step up.
Despite their reluctance, these heroes often possess qualities that make them effective, such as bravery, compassion, and resilience. Over time, they grow into their role, often inspired by the people around them or a specific event. Classic examples of reluctant heroes include characters like Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings and Spider-Man in his early stories.