Heroism, Loss, and Reality in Literature

This chapter explores the themes of idealism and loss in literature, with a focus on Bengali and Japanese narratives. It contrasts different concepts of heroism, highlighting how characters are often celebrated for their failures rather than victories, and critiques the unrealistic expectations set by fantasy narratives in the context of real-world conflicts. The discussion also ties in historical and literary perspectives on military strategy, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the psychological impacts of misaligned narratives on society.