martyr narrative

A martyr narrative is a story that highlights an individual’s sacrifice—often their death—for a cause or belief they consider important. It portrays the person as embodying ideals like justice, faith, or loyalty, inspiring others and shaping collective values. These narratives can serve to validate a movement, motivate supporters, and create a sense of shared identity. While they emphasize sacrifice, they also often emphasize the virtues of conviction and the importance of standing for one’s beliefs, making them powerful tools in social and political contexts.