Heroism works in contradiction to the voice of mankind, and in contradiction, for a time, to the voice of the great and good. Heroism is an obedience to a secret impulse of an individual's character. Now to no other man can its wisdom appear as it does to him, for every man must be supposed to see a little farther on his own proper path than anyone else.
Which of these statements best paraphrases what Emerson says about heroism in this excerpt?
A Heroes should always listen to the wisdom of others so they can follow the proper path and do what is best for mankind.
B Heroes must follow their own path because they know it is right even if it sometimes seems to take them in the wrong direction.
C Heroes cannot make good decisions because they do not have as much strength of character or intelligence as other men.
D Heroes can explain their actions to others because they value obedience and want other men to follow their path to the great and good.
ANSWER: B
