Beowulf:an Epic Hero
Beowulf was written in the eighth century by an unknown author. The story is centered on Beowulf, the main character, who goes to Denmark to offer his assistance in fighting off, Grendel, the monster who has been haunting them. Beowulf most definitely proves to be a hero. His heroism is exemplified first when he kills Grendel, then Grendel's mother, and finally the Red Dragon. The three characteristics of a hero he possesses are bravery, risking his life for the sake of others, and using his great strength to save others. Before going off to battle with Grendel, Beowulf gives a speech that may appear conceited to the modern reader, but is in actuality a simple device used to insure his immortality through fame. Beowulf states, "I claim myself no poorer in was strength, war works, than Grendel claims himself. Therefore I will not put him to sleep with a sword... and then may wise God, Holy Lord, assign glory on whichever hand seems good to him"(35-36). Now, whether he wins or loses the fight, Beowulf will always be remembered as the courageous warrior who battled the beast without aid of a weapon. This passage also shows Beowulf's unconquerable courage. It is important to note, however, that this courage d
In the end a hero is not merely defined by his traits, but by his appearance through the eyes of his God(or at least how the people perceive God's vision). The Lord sees Beowulf as good; therefore he is a hero. The Grendel family, as well as the dragon, is seen as abominations by the Lord, so they are evil. Heroes are ,therefore, nothing more than good-looking villains who possess social graces and yet, they still inspire us to be good. Therefore, Beowulf remains a hero. Beowulf is now ruler over the kingdom of the Geats. He is forced to protect his kingdom from a fearsome dragon after a servant angers the creature by stealing an ornamented cup. Before engaging in the battle Beowulf remains confident of victory by recounting his past exploits, which again certifies him in a position of fame. Although he is armed for the battle he wishes that he could "grapple with the monster, as [he] did of old with Grendel"(59). Beowulf remains just as courageous and as ravenous for fame in his elder years as he does in his youth. Like the previous battles Beowulf again behaves like the hero, with one striking difference. This is the one battle in the poem where Beowulf loses the loyalty of his men, all except one. As the battle between Beowulf and the dragon becomes increasingly violent all but one thane flee. The only exception is Wiglaf, son of
Some common words found in the essay are:
Grendelenemy God37, Holy Lord, Grendel59 Beowulf, Waegmundings Beowulf, Wiglaf God, Hero Beowulf, Lord Beowulf, Grendel Beowulf, Red Dragon, grendel's mother, Wiglaf Beowulf, battle beowulf, beowulf remains, lord beowulf,
Approximate Word count = 907
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
|
