"Beowulf" written as an epic poem, dictates the idea of a hero as someone who is viewed as a savior to his people. Beowulf has one duty: he must fight to win. If he succeeds, he is a hero, if he fails he would be viewed a failure. The narrator illustrates a hero as a loyal, honorable, and courageous person, all of which Beowulf exemplifies. Beowulf risks his life countless times for immortal glory and for the good of his people.

Beowulf's ability to put his people before himself, mark him honorable. He encounters hideous monsters and the most ferocious of beasts, but never fears the threat of death. His power surmounts twenty men in one arm alone, additionally his leadership qualities make him a superb hero in the eyes of his fellow men. For example, when Beowulf is fighting Grendel's mother, who is seeking revenge on her son's death, he is able to slay her by slashing the monster's neck with a Giant's sword that can only be lifted by a person as strong as Beowulf. When he chop

Sir Gawain appears to be incapable and thoughtless at first, but slowly proves himself by his subtle actions. Sir Gawain represents loyalty along with an unclear purpose. He must put his life before the king's and fulfill duties that are not always demanded of him. Sir Gawain is a hero only if he can face his failures. He demonstrates his heroism when he admits his mortality and imperfections in these lines: "I can't deny my guilt; my works shine none to fair! Give me your good will, and henceforth I'll beware."

Sir Gawain's bravery is first evident when the Green Knight enters King Arthur's Court. The Green Knight taunts the people with the question, does anyone dare to take his axe, but first allow him to give the brave soul an well-aimed stroke with it to the neck? Sir Gawain concerned himself with this burden and took the ax from the knight. Gawain knew by doing so he would have to find the Green Knight and receive a blow to his neck in return. Many felt Sir Gawain would not return if he ventured forth and fulfilled his obligations. Gawain accepts this, knowing on his travel he more than likely will be put to death, yet he risked his final crusade with the greatest bravery.

His loyalty and the ability to think of himself last, allows all to view him with the utmost respect. Beowulf ventured out to help the Danes with complete sincerity, an unusual occurrence in the time of war and widespread fear. He set a noble example for all humans relaying the necessity of brotherhood and friendship. His loyal and courageous attributes are what set him apart from someone who can merely kill a monster. In the final line, the narrator clearly acknowledges Beowulf's true kingship, "They said that he was of world-kings the mildest of men and the gentlest, kindest to his people, and most eager for fame."

The ages in which these stories were written plays a major part in the messages the narrators are trying to convey. Beowulf was probably written around 400 A. D. when the main idea was survival of the fittest. The monsters Beowulf fought were actual monsters, an

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Approximate Word count = 1404
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)