Though they come from different cultures, time periods, and lands, King Arthur and Beowulf do share some similarities and differences. The first and the most vital differences between them is that King Arthur is defined as a romance hero, and Beowulf is said to be an epic hero. According to the myths, an epic hero is a central figure in the epics where he reflects the particular values and heroic ideals of his society. Beowulf, one of the ancient England’s heroes- a brave knight, is described to be the perfect archetype of an epic hero. Like all the epic heroes, this hero of ours “possesses superior physical strength and supremely ethical standards”.
The stories and legends surrounding the character of King Arthur are among the best known of all stories about kings and knights. He is the greatest of British literary heroes. The book tells us everything from the birth of the Arthur to his dead. We know that Sir Ector took care of him and rose as his foster child. We also know how Arthur became a leader and how he pulled the sword out of the stone.
He faced them head on, using honesty and good values in one hand and cunning and power in the other. Nobody would’ve guessed that an eleven year old fatherless boy from Vermont would one day lead a country to freedom, would become president, would be honored by a King, even a King whom he fought. George Washington is my favorite president because without him we would not have any other presidents. He is my favorite because he looked after his brother and his friends the same. He is my favorite because he never gave up, even when he was losing.
Brian Haynes J. Maynard Formal Response 1 October 1, 2011 Heroism A hero is “a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability, an illustrious warrior, admired for his achievements and noble qualities, and one that shows great courage” (Webster Dictionary). In the stories “Beowulf” and “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” (authors unknown), the main characters Beowulf and Sir Gawain demonstrate many of the above-listed traits and could be identified as heroes of their day. Beowulf is the type of hero who is not afraid of anything, is very strong in battle, is very courageous and protects the Danish people. Beowulf’s heroism is driven by what the Danish people think of him. Sir Gawain is a hero
Beowulf: Book vs. Movie Every culture encloses a particular story that entails the relationship between mortals and gods. In early English culture, one particular story, Beowulf, illustrates the heroism of Viking culture, and highlights Viking strength through one individual’s courage and might, Beowulf. Although Beowulf’s story is great and historical, however, its descent down history has allowed the character Beowulf to ripple and fade; the person that is Beowulf has become a cloudy topic. In numerous versions of the story many pieces of the puzzle are lacked or missing, making each story significant on its own. In the textbook format of the story and in the popular 2007 movie “Beowulf”, both personify the nature
The beginnings of Arthur as king are an interesting juxtaposition of pagan symbolism and Christian allegory. His removal of Excalibur from the stone reflects heavily on the pagan practice of icon worship, with the sword seen as the ultimate source of magical powers and associated with sovereignty of Great Britain. It is also in this scene of the movie, or excerpt of the legend, that the viewer or reader is simultaneously presented with the idea of Arthur as the “Chosen One”, an almost Christ-like figure with humble beginnings who is destined to be an important part of his world. Just as God had chosen Jesus Christ to spread his good news in the New Testament, to be the dynamic change that brought controversy and contradiction to the Jewish people, it seems there is an external source of power that has deemed Arthur the fated leader of his people; the king that, following the corruption and controversy of his father’s rule, will bring peace and glory to the people of his kingdom. In ascending to the throne, Arthur builds Camelot, his prized castle and fantastic
Beowulf was a great hero long ago. He saved the Danes from Grendel and his mother, as well as the Geats from the Fire Dragon. He became well-known over all the lands for his strength and bravery. “He was good because he was strong enough to accept his weaknesses and turn them into strengths.” (Robert Nye) He came from the land of the Swedes and was known overseas. Beowulf came from his land to the land of the Danes to help Hrothgar defeat Grendel.
Sam Smith September 11, 2009 Duvall Honors English IV Beowulf the Superhero Beowulf being one of the first pieces of literature known to man during the middle ages demonstrates a character that shows the characteristics of a hero. Beowulf exemplifies the archetypal epic hero in four ways. His characteristics show that he is courageous, brave, has superior or super human strength and also has the ability to boast his accomplishments. Courage is the most evident through out Beowulf. Beowulf does now back down from any challenge that stands in his way whether it be the dragon, Grendel or Grendel’s Mother.
Many look to George Washington for the great things he accomplished in his lifetime. Winning the War for American Independence, being the first president, and shaping the way the Constitution was written and how the federal government was formed are all attributable to him. However, from his youth, he was a man who focused on the little details in his life predicted his behavior in large situations as they were presented to him. The mentality and experience he had from such a young age made him into the great leader he was. People who were under him as president must have enjoyed having a loyal educated president who knew what he was doing.
The epic poem “Beowulf” shows a hero of a high status, has a large scale setting or a long journey, and contains long formal speeches. Beowulf is a great hero with a high status in the epic, “Beowulf”. First, Beowulf helps the Danes conquer the great demon descended from Cain, Grendel. “The hope of the Danes had come to pass—He who came from far had cleansed Hrothgar's hall and saved it from affliction. They rejoiced it that night’s work.