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.
Likewise, Beowulf also has authority in his land though he gains it because he is recognize as the mightiest man on earth. Though, they are introduced in the story at different times, both Hrothgar and Grendel ultimately have to solve the same problem of facing Grendel. Moreover, each man is loved and respected by those of their native lands. In response to that, each man shows a positive expression towards their people as well. Hrothgar is a caring and generous ruler who just wants the best way of life for his people.
Ralph realizes to maintain peace, he needs the maintain order. All of Ralph’s qualities end up making him a well-rounded, competent leader. Ralph , through his leadership, shows many democratic ideas. Notably, from the beginning, Ralph encouraged voting. He let the boys vote for “Chief”, a serious issue that at the time since there was a small bit of controversy.
This shows how highly regarded Odysseus is even among other kings. However as the poem goes on, Homer turns the character of Odysseus into his own version of a hero; this is why Odysseus is often known as a Homeric hero. Odysseus uses polymetis (multiple mental strength) a number of times throughout the poem. The first is during his first encounter with Nausicaa, he has to win her over in an attempt to seek her help as she is currently the only way he can get home. Naturally, she would run away at the sight of a dirty, almost naked man but thanks to the goddess Athene, she
It displays cultural ties between these early Anglo-Saxon periods; when glory in battle was of the up-most respect. From my interpretation, Beowulf is a poem on how one achieves ultimate glory through battle and reputation that appeals to most young warriors during the time known as geoguo. Beowulf comes to the aid of Hrothgar despite the infamous reputation of Grendel. Hrothgar knows Beowulf from his father and the rumour that he has great strength. However, these rumours gave him no real reputation and he would have to prove his accolades in his battle with Grendel.
The reason that Beowulf has succeeded in enduring time and is still viewed by our society as a popular story is the fact that Beowulf has been crafted as a marvelous character, where he fights to provide a safe world. He acknowledges that we all will eventually die therefore he faces those challenges in order to establish fame and to be able to live in his people’s memory ( Mythencyclopedia). The character of James Bond is vastly similar to those qualities but in a contemporary and modern style. When you think of a hero you think of the man in shining armor, someone that comes to his fair maidens rescue just in time to save her life. You think of him being handsome with a strong physique and brave.
Beowulf shows his abilities and proves brave enough as he resolves to kill the “lady monster”, (excerpt page 40). The kind of bravery that Beowulf shows is one that could keep him from quitting at a time when almost all others would. For example, when he fights after swimming for days and days. A brave fighter shows characteristics that only ones like him show. If one is brave, they’re generally arrogant.
The Anglo-Saxon society was constructed upon fixed values and morals on which the behavior of individuals was based and judged. This society had a strong sense of community and treasured fame and success as a passageway to immortality. By fighting with Grendel, his mother, and the Dragon not only assured the survival of the Danes, but by doing so Beowulf legitimized his god-like qualities through his heroic deeds. Each of the monsters Beowful faced beared a level of symbolism, in which Grendel represents evil, The reader sees the values of the Anglo-Saxon society embodied by the brave, fearless and exemplary soldier called Beowulf. This character is brought upon conflicts and challenged by inhuman creatures that threaten his existence and the perseverance of his culture.
Although the father's caution was justified and probably saved both of their lives numerous times, the boy probably saved his own life by trusting the man he met at the end of the book. The difference between the father and the son comes down to their
To have such awe inspiring powers so as to gain the trust and respect of your men to the extent that they would indeed take greater pleasure in their deaths than that of their leaders is truly incredible. This is the recognition point for the reader in which he or she can truly tell that Beowulf was a true hero to many people. Not only had Beowulf become a figure of fame in his life, but he had obtained the ultimate honor: Beowulf had become a legend, and, in that, Beowulf would forever continue to be a hero and to demonstrate his talent for generations to come as he had successfully saved his people, the Geats and the