Why Do We Like Anti-Heroes?

The idea of an anti-hero is quite popular in today's society, it is what makes the characters unique to us. Unlike the ideal image of a hero, anti-heroes have multiple flaws that make their imperfections stand out. A good example of a popular anti-hero would be Sherlock Holmes from Elementary, an American crime drama series under the production of CBS Television Studios, created by producer Robert Doherty.

Source: http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/s205/elementary/recaps/a433701/elementary-recap-sherlock-fights-temptation-in-the-rat-race.html

Although Sherlock Holmes originally worked as a consultant for Scotland Yard in England, he became a drug addict after hearing news of Irene Adler's death. After he became unable to cooperate properly as a consultant and had to spend some time in rehab, his wealthy father sends him to live in Manhattan, where is forced to live with a sober companion - Dr. Joan Watson.

Source: http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/series-premiere-review-elementary-pilot-the-mets-game-is-afoot

Over time, Sherlock began to accept and warm up to their companionship, and they started to work together as consultants for Captain Thomas Gregson and Detective Marcus Bell. Though, Sherlock's harsh character and apathy towards other's well-being caused many conflict with other characters. Later on, they came across a case regarding a serial killer known as "M", later on revealed to be Sebastian Moran, a professional assassin. Sherlock then attempts to murder M when he was claims that Irene Adler was murdered by M. 

In The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow, Washington Irving also portrayed Ichabod Crane as an anti-hero, in fact, he is the first anti-hero in the history of American Literature. Ichabod Crane's attitude towards other people's feelings is quite similar to Sherlock's, both of them can be quite selfish. Yet, their flaws are what makes them stand out, it is what captures our attention.