What was Warren Carroll taking about?

Did you have a specific question about the essay. In context, Carroll is addressing Columbus' contribution to history.... his heroism and his flaws. He talks about the good and the bad, the way perceptions have changed over the course of time, and how important heroism is in regard to inspiration.

ABSTRACT: Columbus was a flawed hero—as all men are flawed, including heroes—and his flaws are of a kind particularly offensive to today’s culture. But he was nevertheless a hero, achieving in a manner unequalled in the history of exploration and the sea, changing history forever. For some strange reason heroism is almost anathema to our age, at least to many of its most vocal spokesmen. But heroes and the inspiration they give are essential to uplift men and women; without them, faceless mediocrity will soon descend into apathy and degradation. Heroes need not be perfect; indeed, given the fallen nature of man, none can be perfect. It is right to criticize their failings, but wrong to deny their greatness and the inspiration they can give. - CERC