The curious part is you relate heroism with physical strength, a very superficial concept of heroism. We have overwhelmingly different concepts of heroism, apparently.
I checked it out and I see two mainstay definitions of a hero
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In mythology and legend, a man, often of divine ancestry, who is endowed with great courage and strength, celebrated for his bold exploits, and favored by the gods.
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A person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrificed his or her life.
I tend to think moreso of definition 2. The more I thought about it, from my perspective, there are a few key characteristics of heroism. First, it’s performed in service to others in need; or in defense of certain ideals. Second, it is engaged in voluntarily. Even in the context of a military campaign, heroism is typically defined as going beyond something that is required. Third, a heroic act is done with the knowledge that there are risks associated and the hero is willing to accepted the anticipated sacrifice.
So, "a concern for other people in need, a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there are personal risks, and done without expectation of reward.
Potentially, you and I see heroism quite differently. Maybe yours is more associated with the first definition, “a mythical man, of divine ancestry, who is endowed with great strength and courage, celebrated for his bold exploits, and favored by the Gods.” Potentially, your version of a hero is more resembling Hercules, Achilles, Theseus, Perseus…or maybe He-Man, Optimus Prime or Lion-O from Thundercats…or maybe Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, or The Undertaker. They are physically strong, manly heroes from comics, Saturday morning cartoons, wrestling and Greek Mythology.
I tend to think of heroes from a more realistic perspective that involves less physical strength or testosterone, and more risking themselves for others in the face of danger, for those other people and not for personal glory or payment. I don’t think women are less heroic, less sacrificing, or inherently more evil or immoral than men. Good conversation, though. Maybe the next one we have is about some men’s fragile male ego.
