A hero is is often defined by certain qualities, looked upon traits. A true hero does not fear death or, but instead risks all that he is for what he believes to be right, moral, and just. Beowulf is an epic that tells the story of a legendary hero, conquering all obstacles as if he was immortal. In the narrative epic poem, Beowulf, the great Anglo-Saxon hero, engages in three main battles. Beowulf approaches each of these three battles in a different way and with a different strategy in mind.
Warriors had to be willing to anything to show their courage, to prove themselves to be able to be seen as a true Anglo-Saxon hero. Beowulf definitely lived by this, “Warriors had to be willing to face any odds and fight to the death for their glory and their people” (Probst). This quote shows the grave lengths warriors would go to be able to have the nobility to be called an Anglo-Saxon
Should Alexander The Great Be Considered “The Great”? Ubaid Thoophany 5/11/15 Alexander the great should be considered the great because of all the great things he did. He made his kingdom overpowered, and built a name for himself and his people, which is a very brave and hard thing to do. First off, he ruled his kingdom Macedonia, well and helped it by making the right choices for his empire. Also, he fought in many wars with such bravery to prove himself worthy and determined to be known as “The Great”.
He will persevere despite any fear he may have. By stating his willingness of death to protect the people, they realize how much hard work and boldness Beowulf is disposed to put forth. His view of the upcoming battle shall either result in his conquer or let death’s cold grip extract him. He will jeopardize his own life in order to be called the true meaning of hero. In conclusion, when the battle is over, all is done.
However, that doesn’t represent a hero so Beowulf knowing he might not make it back, knows he must fight and he “feels no shame, with shield and sword” (101, 2517-2520). This shows he isn’t even fighting for glory; he is fighting because he knows he must end this dragon’s life before his is ended. He fights for his people, for what is right, and nothing else. Beowulf is an epic hero because he represents himself with the characteristics of supernatural strength, courage and the will to fight for what’s right. There is no possible way Beowulf will be forgotten and his legacy will carry on throughout time and his tale will live on
Beowulf always made sure that his men were taken care of when he was with the Danes. He ensures that they will be cared for if Beowulf was to fall in arms to his foes. Indeed, he does this both when he fights Grendel and his mother. The soldiers under Beowulf’s command shows one their faith in Beowulf as a leader while they wait vigilantly for his return from the battle against Grendel’s mother. If they had thought any less of Beowulf as a leader, they would have left and returned to wait in Herot.
He’s very courageous because he fights things that others wouldn’t even dream of. His loyalty to the people is matched only by his courage. His self-sacrifice personality strengthens the argument that he is a true hero. Throughout his life, Beowulf demonstrates courage, loyalty, and self-sacrifice by fighting monsters that would threaten his
In addition to that in order for him to succeed he must orally deliver his strength. When his sword fails him he uses his physical strength: "On the might of his hand, as a man must do Who thinks to win in the welter of battle Enduring glory; he fears not death". He believed in “that it is always better to act than to grieve “. He gains his fame truthfully by doing battle with menaces to society. He does not lie or manipulate to achieve fame; he uses what is rightfully his, his bravery.
Beowulf shows bravery in line 158 “… Death was errand.” He states that he will fight to his death. He will not back up from his fight with Grendel even if it might cost him his life. Beowulf also shows courage in line 154 “… I drove five great giants into chains.” By Beowulf’s statement he shows how he is not afraid of fighting anyone. Beowulf shows courage which makes him fit the image of an epic hero. Beowulf is also considered to be a leader.
Beowulf is portrayed as the hero, not only in Beowulf but in Grendel’s recounting as well. Grendel, on the other hand, feels like he is the hero, even though he is seen as a monster. Beowulf comes to save the Danes from Grendel’s wrath, he is known as the man who has the “strength of thirty thanes" (Chapter 10) and also "hearth-companions of King Hygilac" (Chapter 11). Even though Beowulf is viewed as the hero, Grendel feels like he should not be seen as a monster, that is, until after his visit with the dragon. He sees himself as a human, or something like a human, and wants to be a part of their world.