If one is brave, they’re generally arrogant. Beowulf was very arrogant, in that he is constantly saying he’s the strongest man alive and that no man’s strength is a match for his. Being boastful is a strong suit of an epic hero. If one thinks or knows they can do something, it gives them the determination and drive it takes to get the job done. Beowulf brags about his many, many battles, even in his later years.
In eighth century culture, a legendary reputation made a man immortal. We see from his exploits in the poem that it was far more important to Beowulf to build a reputation than to build wealth. Beowulf’s bravery and skill in combat made him an Anglo-Saxon hero of his day. His valiant death as a warrior solidified his legendary status in the minds of his people. Beowulf’s embodiment of Anglo-Saxon heroic ideals has insured that tales of his great deeds will continue to endure for
Nina Ybarra Mr. Butler English 12CP 1-27-2015 Beowulf the Epic Hero A true hero does not fear death and will risk all that he is to protect people from great danger. Beowulf is an epic hero and tells a great story about a legend who overcomes all difficulties; almost as if he was immortal. All heroes share their characteristics of their preparedness to die, this is what marks their actions heroic. Throughout the epic Beowulf exhibits various characteristics that makes him an epic hero. One of the characteristics Beowulf demonstrations is his capability of deeds of great strength and courage.
Beowulf and his people displays these virtues in his own actions and words during different circumstances throughout the tale. Beowulf was "the strongest of the Geats" and also "greater and stronger than anyone anywhere in this world". Beowulf is shown to be the strongest among the strong. Physical strength was very much envied by the Anglo-Saxon culture. Beowulf could slay the greatest monster of all, Grendel.
In the epic poem, the Anglo-Saxons value strength as a characteristic of a superior and great warrior. Beowulf throughout the entire story portrays this by fighting the battles with the monsters and by defeating them when no one else could or were too afraid to. The author states of how Beowulf and the other warriors are “greater/ and stronger than anyone anywhere in this world”(110-111). Beowulf was a powerful warrior who fit the idealistic of a warrior in an Anglo-Saxon society. When fighting with Grendel and Grendels mother he never needed the protection of armor or swords.
Beowulf depicts the traits of an ideal hero. He can be described as a fearless fighter with tremendous strength and an honorable man willing to risk it all. The strength of Beowulf is similar to the almighty power of thirty men. For example line 111 quoted, “And stronger than anyone anywhere in this world.” Beowulf was easily compared to superheroes only seen on TV! He is brave, and he has confidence bordering on absurdity.
It displays cultural ties between these early Anglo-Saxon periods; when glory in battle was of the up-most respect. From my interpretation, Beowulf is a poem on how one achieves ultimate glory through battle and reputation that appeals to most young warriors during the time known as geoguo. Beowulf comes to the aid of Hrothgar despite the infamous reputation of Grendel. Hrothgar knows Beowulf from his father and the rumour that he has great strength. However, these rumours gave him no real reputation and he would have to prove his accolades in his battle with Grendel.
Beowulf is a hero who embodies the ideal characteristics in the Anglo-Saxon culture; these characteristics all come together to make up an epic tale. He possesses the traits and beliefs that were respected in the Anglo-Saxon culture. Beowulf displays these traits in his own actions and words during different circumstances throughout the tale. Beowulf is shown to be the strongest among the strong. Physical strength was very much embraced by the Anglo-Saxon culture.
Character Traits of Beowulf In the tale of Beowulf, three character traits can be found. His loyalty, strength and bravery make him heroic. Beowulf is a true heroic character because he is willing to risk his life for his ideals. He is reluctant to back down from battle, just so he can be there for the people who are in great need to be saved. Once he makes a vow, he stands by his word, no matter the cost.
According to the Anglo-Saxon culture, there is a heroic code that demonstrates the qualities of a heroic individual. These qualities include being able to share feuds, hating peace, and have hospitality among other themes. Although many people may question Beowulf’s effectiveness as a hero, he proved that the heroic code is very broad and that there is not one specific way to demonstrate heroic qualities. At the beginning of Beowulf, a big, demon-like creature named Grendel who is described as a “God-cursed brute” (line 121), attacks Daneland and King Hrothgar’s newly built monument, Heorot. Heoret is a symbol for fortune and prosperity, however this demon is not allowing the Danes to celebrate in it.