This paper will tell examples and reasoning of why Beowulf is all of these things. An epic hero is one that stands out among all the rest. Even after hearing many stories of Grendel’s wrath, he still planned to fight the best without any hesitation. The reader would believe this is an example of a very brave fighter. Beowulf shows his abilities and proves brave enough as he resolves to kill the “lady monster”, (excerpt page 40).
The true definition of an epic hero is a character that will take on any challenge even it risks death, posses’ godly strength and ability, and finally will valiantly sacrifice themselves for the good of their people and ideals. In this case, Beowulf is the spitting image of an epic hero. Not only does he fit the description but also he emits pure heroism in almost every thing he does from fighting Grendel to the Dragon. Beowulf portrays the epic hero in the following ways such as taking on seemingly impossible challenges like his swimming competition with Breca, possessing godly and superhuman strength when fighting Grendel and his mother, and finally sacrificing himself by fighting and defeating the Dragon while also dying for his people. Beowulf could not fit the image, attitude, and qualities of an epic hero any more perfect.
Textual Analysis: Beowulf Attacks the Dragon “I risked my life often when I was young. Now I am old, but as king of the people I shall pursue this fight for the glory of winning, if the evil one will only abandon his earth-fort and face me in the open.” Beowulf was a great king and an even better man. He led when no other could, and he fought when no other would. He had displayed an unmatchable courage as he fought and defeated Grendel as well as Grendel’s mother. Along with these defeats as well as being king for now fifty years, there was not much more notoriety and respect that Beowulf could gain.
Fifty years into the future Beowulf is faced with a horrendous dragon and gets into an epic battle with it. Beowulf slays the dragon but pays for his victory with his own life from a life threatening injury caused by the battle. He is then buried gracefully. Beowulf displays a hero that has to fight for his right of reputation and glory. It displays cultural ties between these early Anglo-Saxon periods; when glory in battle was of the up-most respect.
“Behavior that’s admired is the path to power among people everywhere (20-25).” War and courage in battle were more honorable than peace in early Anglo-Saxon culture. They were a warrior people, fighting enemies, neighbors and each other with equal passion. No man among them gained power or fame without a display of heroic ideals. For more than five hundred years they ruled Europe, and in their mead-halls stories of the bravery, loyalty, virtue, and physical prowess of Anglo-Saxon heroes were told and re-told. In the epic poem, Beowulf, the title character epitomizes an Anglo-Saxon hero with his bravery and his skill in combat.
He was also extremely arrogant. Beowulf decided to do what no other warrior would do, to go to Daneland and defeat the demon Grendel. He wanted to do this so that he would be viewed as a hero, instead of just a young, unproven warrior. He knew who he was, but he wanted the
Beowulf continues to thank God for giving him a safe trip there. Beowulf goes to Hrothgar and helps him. Beowulf is already known as a hero in the kingdom because he got rid of there enemy. The warriors were worried to hear what he did and what he was going to do to Grendel. Beowulf went through his plan in his head like any good athlete would before a big game.
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 was fearless of all opponents and fought to defend his fame and glory. Beowulf did not need to tell anyone that he was fearless; he showed them how fearless he was. Beowulf needed no sword or shield to protect him from Grendel when he killed Grendel with his own hands "My lord Higlac might think less of me if I let my sword go where my feet were afraid to, if I hid behind some broad linden shield: my hands alone shall fight for me, struggle for life against the monster". Beowulf jumped in the water to fight Grendel's mourning mother, he did not know where he was going yet, he went for glory and fame showing no fear. Beowulf displayed that he was very resourceful, as well as, the other traits listed.
A true hero does not fear death or, but instead risks all that he is for what he believes to be right, moral. Beowulf is an epic and tells the story of a legendary hero, conquering all obstacles as if he was immortal. Up until the end of Beowulf’s life he was constantly looking to be the hero. However, his humanity is exposed by his death. Heroes all share the characteristic of their willingness to die in their effort to accomplish their heroic act, thus making the act in itself heroic.