Heroism in fantasy has so many tropes that every stock genre story includes at least, oh, seven. These tropes have become quite numerous, and are practically a story all their own. A few off the top of my head are: the village at peace, but not for long; the night of the evil villain's slaughter; the old veteran that teaches the heroes how to be heroes; the dragon to be slain; the hero to save the world. The list goes on.
While I've heard these tropes described as tired, overused, or plain stupid, I would disagree, respectfully. I do not believe the content of a story determines its intrigue; rather, it is the way this content is used.
Thus, you, if you agree, or are willing to test this, step forth! Become a hero most generic and challenge the villain most generic! Yet use those tropes, those generic elements, as mere tools. You, the writer, have the power to give them meaning!
Onward!
