Beowulf could not fit the image, attitude, and qualities of an epic hero any more perfect. First, an epic hero may establish himself or herself through rigorous challenges. Any true epic hero would never back down from any challenge, as they want to establish themselves as the mightiest and the bravest. Beowulf shows this characteristic a multitude of times. The best example of Behold epic heroism is when he tells the story of his swimming challenge with Breca.
A Selfish Hero Many people recognize Beowulf as the hero of Anglo-Saxon times. Judging by his amazing resume of feats and strengths, this is not hard to believe. However, the epic, Beowulf, illustrates the great length the character had to go through to succeed. Beowulf did anything in his power to prevail, leading him to become selfish. A closer analysis of Beowulf's speech, thoughts, and actions will prove this thesis to be true.
In the world we live in, more and more people are becoming experts at creating facades and hiding their true intentions, though we are always taught not to judge a book by its cover, it is human nature to do so. In the short story “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell, Rainsford, a hunter, is thrown off of his ship and forced to use his survival skills to escape an untimely death. The author utilizes the ironic situations of the welcoming but ultimately betraying island and the hidden escape of the ocean to convey the theme that ideas of safety and danger can be an illusion. The island is an illusion because while it seems inviting, it conceals a great danger. At first, Rainsford is elated to find land; he describes the sound of the waves breaking on the shore as “the most welcome he had ever heard” (Connell 3).
Out of all the themes in A Gathering Of Old Men the greatest was reaffirming self worth by taking action. The most crucial character that made this theme so strong was Mathu. Without Mathu reaffirming self worth by taking action would not be a major theme. Things such as Mathu being the only one to ever stand up for himself and everyone going to Mathu's house support this. Every man in A Gathering Of Old Men seemed weak and wanted to run away when they heard about the killing of Beau.
The revenge he sought on the suitors must have had invoked great fear in him because there were so many suitors. Odysseus carried out the plan anyway, showed his bravery, and put aside his fears. So he had obviously that he was brave. Wisdom is another trait a hero must possess. Odysseus's wisdom has been put to the test many times.
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.
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.
The "Odyssey" is an epic story that has been a compelling piece of literature since it was first written and it will remain that way for many years to come. This much-found success of the "Odyssey" has been because of the story's hero, Odysseus. Odysseus is one of the first Greek mythic heroes famed for his brain as well as his brawn. He is a man with a curious mind, and he is also a man with unsettled valor and bravery. In addition to his character, he is a superior athlete as well.
Once in a swimming race Beowulf had been attacked by a sea monster and had to save himself. He slew the monster and eight other seas beasts. He also says, “I swam in the blackness of night, hunting monsters out of the ocean, and killing them one by one; death was my errand and the fate they had earned” (Beowulf 176-180). Beowulf uses his past heroic deeds and his confidence to convince Hrothgar why he is a fit opponent for Grendel the monster. Furthermore; Beowulf reaches his lowest point in the hero cycle when he’s faced with three numinous phenomenons.
He was also a more heroic leader than either Hannibal of Julius Caesar, due to their vicious and uninspired tactics. Alexander the Great was by far the most heroic and event-making individual of his time and was unparalleled in his achievements. Alexander was an established military leader who achieved many conquests during his time in power. He was