The fact that not all thanes could be as courageous and have so many heroic achievements for their countries and rulers is why Beowulf seems so ideal and extraordinary. Beowulf's many achievements told throughout the story gives him the appearance of the most faithful of thanes, who has climbed the social ladder not because he has meant to do so, but because he wishes to protect his country and others and give all the credit to its rulers. This sort of behavior gives him a kind and generous nature that can be traced to a kind of chivalry. Chivalry can also be considered a very important role in the creation of a thane's reputation and popularity. Through Beowulf's chivalry, generosity, friendship, and popularity, all of his kingdom and of others knew him for his heroism and loyalty.
He was considered a “larger than life” hero and the writer of the story did a great job portraying the good characteristics of Beowulf and how he was able to conquer all. He came from a large community or group where he wanted to protect all. Without this, there would be no good meaning to this story because he was well trusted and the
The three heroes discussed here, Beowulf, Sir Gawain and King Arthur, are heroes for different reasons. Beowulf, our earliest hero, is brave but his motivation is different than then other two. To Sir Gawain personal honor and valor is what is important. King Arthur, Sir Gawain's uncle, is naturally the quintessential king of the medieval period. Though all men to a certain extent share the same qualities, some are more pronounced than in the others.
Through these battles, Beowulf’s strength, humbleness and courageousness is revealed. These are characteristics that are crucial in defining an epic hero. However, every epic hero has a tragic flaw. Beowulf’s tragic flaw is his pride. His tragic flaw is evident throughout the novel thinking he can win them all.
He’s filled with “wisdom and chivalrie” (7), and he’s also quite a conqueror, who has won”ful many a riche contree” (6). Although Theseus is being a very brave man, he needs to be sure Creon ensures to not go without punishment. Also, he must resolve the quarrel amongst Palamon and Arcite, not just for the reason that it comprises of a family member, but because it is producing domestic turbulence amongst his land, resulting in him not having the necessary control. Theseus not only rules but he takes the time to reflect on life’s rules and to share his insights with those around him. His first encounter was when he found Palamon and Arcite arguing in the woods
Wart is a very good person, but his actions always seem to go overlooked by everyone. One prime example of this is when Kay brought the griffin head and Wart brought Wat as a reward for saving the trapped prisoners. Wat was a mad man but Wart believed that Merlyn could have cured him. Wart obviously has the right intentions and put the well being of others his top priority. When the boys come back home, everyone seems disgusted to see Wat back but everyone seems proud of Kay especially Sir Ector.
From the characters impressive introduction, it is clear that this man is the most valued and honorable traveler among the group. This perfect gentleman holds a love of ideals that are often not displayed by people. First and foremost, he believes in the ideals of chivalry, and always stays true to its principles. He also feels that one should be honest, truthful and faithful, which many people are not all of these ideals. The knight thinks one should only do what is right, and what will gain him honor and reputation.
Okonkwo was one of the strongest and most respected men in his society. Yet, he feared becoming an exact image of his father; therefore, embodying the values of manliness, he took on his own approach to life and how he dealt with problems in society. By adapting to his own deranged idea of masculinity he rejected everything that his father stood for, such as cowardice, gentleness, and laziness. Okonkwo stood for bravery, courage, hard work, and
He shows the unreasonable and irrational side that everyone in his tribe and family can see, but “in his heart, Okonkwo [is] not a cruel man”. Okonkwo possesses sensitive feelings, “but [they] lay deep within” him. The “wall” between the feelings he holds within, and the actions he expresses is very clear in the beginning of the book. Dominance is every weak man’s key to seeming stronger to his peers. As long as Okonkwo can appear ruthless and powerful, he will, in turn, appear to be manly, unlike his father.
As a hero, the Anglo-Saxons made Beowulf have certain hero characteristics. Today we still have heroes that have the same characteristics because authors took the image of Beowulf and created other super-natural heroes. Beowulf was a warrior and a king that showed great courage and he was admired by his own people and King Hrothgar. Epic heroes are social icons and they are imposing in stature, physically and socially. Their style is grand, yet simple, and they have super-human strength and they also face super-natural forces.