When the kids were small and I would watch a program with
them, I would often ask, “What character are you?”
The meaning was what character do you identify with the most
strongly. Usually the answer was the obvious protagonist, but not always. For
longer series, with many subplots and characters, the results were often surprising.
I have always asked myself this question as I watch movies
and read books. As expected, I tend to identify with characters that reflect my
current self-appointed role in life, realistic or otherwise. In the past it was
hero and rebel, now it is as father and mentor. Elder statesman. Confused philanthropist.
In watching the Avatar series, I immediately identified with
the exiled General Iroh. He was a competent and philosophical commander who was
banished from the Fire Kingdom for his commitment to humanity. He made no bones
about his love for tea and roast duck – all noble in my book.
Furthermore, he disguised his stratagems and therapies for
his angry charge Prince Zuko in his sybaritic appetites.
I salute Iroh as a humble and worthy role model!
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