Final answer:
In literature, heroines are the central female characters known for their courage and iconic actions, such as Harriet Tubman's leadership to freedom, which can defy societal norms and make significant impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The heroine in a novel is the female protagonist who is noted for her courage, daring actions, and is central to the narrative's development. In the texts provided, the heroines are portrayed as women of extraordinary character, often fighting against the prevailing constraints or adversities of their times. Harriet Tubman, as described in Sarah H. Bradford's 'Scenes in the Life of Harriet Tubman,' exemplifies a real-life heroine whose actions are comparable to those of legendary figures like Joan of Arc, and who played a significant role in leading her people from oppression to freedom. In other references, heroines appear as unexpected figures in unlikely surroundings, showcasing strength and morality, as seen in the prohibitionist's battle against liquor, or Lucy Dare's sacrificial choice in Virginia. Moreover, characters like Catherine from Austen's work demonstrate how heroines can defy typical expectations and conventions within fiction. These portrayals highlight the diverse manifestations of heroines in literature, often challenging societal norms and leaving lasting impacts on their world and literature.