Be a hero! (V. Koretsky) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

This is a Soviet propaganda poster from 1941 titled Be a hero! by V. Koretsky. The poster depicts a Soviet soldier in uniform, wearing a helmet and carrying a rifle. Next to him stands a woman, possibly his wife or mother, with her hand placed on his chest. Both figures are looking forward with determined expressions. The text БУДЬ (Be) is prominently displayed above them, and ГЕРОЕМ! (a hero!) is shown in large red letters below.

The subtexts conveyed by the poster are:

• Patriotism and Duty: The poster aims to inspire Soviet citizens to embrace heroism and serve their country, especially in the context of the impending war (WWII, specifically the German invasion that began in June 1941).
• Sacrifice and Defense: The soldier represents the nations defense, and the womans gesture can be interpreted as a motherly or loving farewell and encouragement, implying the importance of his sacrifice for the homeland.
• National Unity: The pairing of the soldier and the civilian woman suggests the unity of the Soviet people in the face of external threat, where everyone has a role to play, whether on the battlefield or supporting from home.
• Moral Call to Action: The direct imperative Be a hero! serves as a powerful exhortation, urging ordinary individuals to rise to extraordinary courage and resilience.
• Heroic Ideal: The poster promotes an idealized image of the Soviet hero – strong, stoic, and devoted to their country.