Beowulf's Revelation of Humility
Modesty is an honorable trait that can be acquired only through age and experience. Beowulf confirms how this attribute is obtained by becoming more humble throughout the epic narrative that bears his name. He is first presented as an extremely conceited character at the time of the battle with Grendel, constantly praising himself for his achievements. At his next battle with Grendel's mother, he begins to submit his arrogance to modesty, and by doing so, becomes more aware of his human qualities. He finally transforms into a truly humble but still admirable hero at his last battle with the dragon. Beowulf's gradual change of character can be most obviously seen in the preparations, actual combat, and aftermath of each crucial battle scene To start off, Beowulf is recklessly confident when he fights Grendel. Seeing himself as undefeatable, he arrogantly claims that he does not need to "hide behind some broad linden shield" or agree to have extra help from outside his team of fourteen men (171-2). Even though additional warriors would only be beneficial to defense, Beowulf is too proud to accept the offer. Fur
thermore, he makes an effort to publicize his bravery by engaging in a gallant boast, claiming he is the strongest man alive and guaranteeing to slay the demon by the next morning. His words prove true during the clash when he scares the horrid monster into wanting to retreat, all with only one powerful grip. He does not even need to resort to using weapons and still manages to easily vanquish his foe. Not only does he dramatically frighten the monster, but also he triumphantly hangs his arm after successfully and easily crushing him as promised, additionally broadcasting himself. This deliberate act of self-promotion displays the epitome of Beowulf's rudimentary egotism. All in all, Beowulf is tremendously supercilious and oblivious of his faults during the battle with Grendel. Beowulf's epiphany causes him to show humility and consciousness of his limitations when he finally battles the dragon, after maturing fifty years. He says goodbye to his warriors, painfully knowledgeable that it may be his last time to see them. He truly comes to the point of humility because at his first battle he assures to defeat
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Approximate Word count = 757
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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