Beowulf: A True Hero

Improved Essays
Beowulf was a fictional hero that existed long ago from a tale from the fourth century who fought a monster to defend his people. However, it was not his sword fighting talent that he used to strike down Grendel and rescue his folks, it was the hope he bought for them. While imagined heroes such as Beowulf were depicted as those with super strength that typically save the day and defeat the antagonist, they still share the same morals and traits that realistic heroes inherit today. However, these real life heroes are regular human beings that do much more than overpowering the enemy and they may not even be remembered for it. Fictional heroes from long ago such as Beowulf and realistic heroes of today both possess similar characteristics and …show more content…
Growling, Grabbing, Gnarling, as the villain of Beowulf’s tale, Grendel, went to devour his targets. Appearing a light in the darkness, Beowulf confronts the savage beast. Beowulf triumphs Grendel when it is described in the tale of Beowulf, “Grendel saw that his strength was deserting him. His claws bound fast, Higlac’s brave follower tearing at his hands. The monster’s hatred rose higher, but his power had gone. He twisted in pain, and the bleeding sinews deep in his shoulder snapped, muscle and bone split and broke.” (Line 333-339) All in all, this is the heroic action Beowulf performs to save his kind. Beowulf, like many other fictional heroes, inhabits miraculous strength. For instance, Beowulf’s proficiency in fencing was how he was able to dominate Grendel. This is proven in the tale of Beowulf when it states, “Desiring nothing but escape, his claws had been caught, he was trapped.” (Lines 288-289) And “the mighty protector of men meant to hold the monster till its life leaped out.” (Lines 333-334) Regarding these evidences from Beowulf’s tale, it is clear the Beowulf’s physical strength managed to frighten and trap Grendel and could keep on fighting to the end. To put it briefly, Beowulf occupies superior strength and capability …show more content…
Beowulf was well known throughout his story. For one thing, the tale of Beowulf describes him “as he was loved by the Geats.” (Line 118) Considering this evidence, it becomes evident that Beowulf was well respected and famous toward the Geats. Furthermore, Beowulf was given many epithets throughout his story, such as “that shepherd of evil, guardian of crime.” (Line 273) In other words, others from the story are already aware of whom Beowulf is and his heroic traits which are being brave, confident, and selfless. Contrary to Beowulf’s actions, real life heroes save people from real life danger such as fire, accidents, storms, or from injury. In addition, they also inspire and help others. For example, Michael Jordan, a famous basketball player, inspired many others to do their best and never give up. Jordan even admitted he has missed over nine-thousand shots, lost over three-hundred games, and missed twenty-six winning shots that costed the game, but he kept on playing and became one of the most

Related Documents

  • Great Essays

    Heroism In Beowulf Essay

    • 2325 Words
    • 10 Pages

    In a world that is constantly evolving, the traits and actions of a hero adapt over time. What constitutes as heroism in one culture could be cowardice in another. In terms of literature, Beowulf has stood the test of time and has consistently been regarded as the epitome of heroes. While the character for whom the epic is named after performs a few daring deeds, what sets Beowulf apart from others is the exploration of his heroism in two distinct phases. The beginning of the tale starts with Beowulf in his youth; he is strong, brave, quick to volunteer to do what needs to be done.…

    • 2325 Words
    • 10 Pages
    Great Essays
  • Superior Essays

    The epic story of Beowulf portrays a young man determined to find his place in the Anglo-Saxon society as a hero, encouraged upon him from his youth, Beowulf was enthralled, one can even say he was obsessed, with the idea of fame and accomplishment. His desire for both inspired him at the moment ,and throughout the remainder of his life as a leader amongst leaders and a true hero in the complete sense of the term. Beowulf is different than most heroes in…

    • 1443 Words
    • 6 Pages
    Superior Essays
  • Improved Essays

    In the tales of Beowulf, Beowulf exemplifies strength, courage, and bravery. Beowulf is the son of Healfdan the great king of the geets. Beowulf sailed from the great kingdom of Geetland to Herot. Beowulf offered to help the kingdom of Herot by fight the great and powerful Grendel. Grendel was a demon from hell.…

    • 489 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    What are the makings of a hero? Are they the physical qualities or the outstanding achievements? Or is it the mental battles of the hero that count? Three heroes from ancient english literature will be assessed for the noble qualities of a hero. Brave Beowulf was an honorable hero of the Geats.…

    • 464 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    only one who has the strength to defeat this creature of darkness. Beowulf proves his capability to defeat Grendel by being rewarded with Grendel’s arm. As described, “The monster’s whole body was in pain, a tremendous wound appeared on his shoulder. Sinews split and the bone- lappings burst. Beowulf was granted the glory of winning…” (806).…

    • 127 Words
    • 1 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    The epic poem Beowulf tells a story of a hero coming from a different land to lift the shroud of evil off Herot. Hero’s in an epic poem must exemplify traits of bravery, strength, courage, and the want to achieve immortality through heroic actions and deeds. In the poem Beowulf the main character Beowulf exemplifies all of these traits. Bravery, all epic heroes possess this trait especially Beowulf. The beginning of the story, Grendel travels into Herot and kills thirty people.…

    • 648 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    Beowulf Hero's Journey

    • 595 Words
    • 3 Pages

    Beowulf is a story of a hero with superhuman qualities facing the forces of evil. The story is set in medieval times and the hero Beowulf encounters 3 major battles throughout the story. The battles with Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon all play a specific part in the story and describe the life of the hero. Each battle serves a different purpose and they each have their meanings related to the life of Beowulf and the different stages of a hero.…

    • 595 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    Beowulf Hero's Journey

    • 1095 Words
    • 5 Pages

    A real hero is one who falls and fails; otherwise, they are nothing more than a stale perfection. Having fallen to their knees, a real hero always manages to rise again. Their strength and courage allows them to propel away their weaknesses. When faced with numerous struggles and obstacles, the ascertained downfalls no longer provide a threat to the combatant. Thus, throughout the hero’s journey, their shortcomings become the power required for victory.…

    • 1095 Words
    • 5 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Great Essays

    Tragic Flaws Of Beowulf

    • 1539 Words
    • 7 Pages

    The Old English epic poem “Beowulf,” written by an unknown Anglo-Saxon poet, narratres the valiant journey of a young Geatish hero named Beowulf who travels to the land of the Danes to save them from the lurid demon, Grendel. Though Beowulf’s character epitomizes the Anglo-Saxon epic hero, Beowulf also possesses three major flaws that distract modern readers from his ultimate heroism. Beowulf’s first flaw, conceitedness, is apparent in the boasts he makes upon his arrival at Herot. Though it is obvious that the Geat is a talented and mighty warrior, his actions, not his continual gloats, should illuminate his skills and brilliance. Additionally, Beowulf’s energetic and competitive nature stimulates his need for action, often causing unpleasant situations.…

    • 1539 Words
    • 7 Pages
    Great Essays
  • Improved Essays

    Hero In Beowulf

    • 993 Words
    • 4 Pages

    The night before Grendel fought Beowulf, Beowulf made it clear how strong he was to the…

    • 993 Words
    • 4 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Improved Essays

    The epic hero named Beowulf is a warrior, who can do what no man can as he defeats life and death challenges. In his youth, Beowulf was considered a great warrior due to his strength and courage. For example, his fable swimming match with Breca to get to grendel 's mom was showing how strong he was and the Germanic heroic code of Loyalty, courtesy and pride. His battle with Grendel and Grendel’s mother validates his bravery as he faces three tremendous battles that help shape him into the epic hero he is known as today. Beowulf young and courageous battles Grendel with ease, will never have any fearful vain and will never back down from any fight.…

    • 1169 Words
    • 5 Pages
    Improved Essays
  • Great Essays

    Beowulf: A Hero?

    • 1124 Words
    • 4 Pages

    Beowulf: A hero? "Be of good hope; be valiant; watch for the foe" said by the King of the Danes in the illustrated version of Beowulf by Gareth hinds depicts the qualities of a hero. The graphic novel follows the protagonist known as Beowulf for the latter part of his life. Numerous fights between Beowulf and monsters and beasts occur within the novel. One cannot dispute of the many heroic acts Beowulf had performed.…

    • 1124 Words
    • 4 Pages
    Great Essays
  • Superior Essays

    In the story, Beowulf is described as “the strongest of the Geats-greater and stronger than anyone in this world” (110-111). Another way Beowulf of the Beowulf takes on the role of an epic hero is by possessing supernatural traits. During the oldtimes, the Anglo-Saxons valued heroes who win the battle and protects the people. In the story, Beowulf faced many evil monsters like demons and dragon. Beowulf is fighting opponents that mere mortals cannot ever dare to battle.…

    • 1034 Words
    • 5 Pages
    Superior Essays
  • Superior Essays

    In Beowulf, Beowulf, the main character, is regarded as a hero. He is known throughout the Land of the Danes and the Land of the Geats as fearless and courageous when he comes to their aid to help slay Grendel, Grendel’s mom, and a Dragon. Beowulf’s heroism is exemplified in two phases: the first is youthful heroism and the second is mature heroism, once he is crowned King. Throughout his life, Beowulf helped not only his own people, but also those in other lands. People look up to him for his great strength and the ability to never back down from a challenge, even when he knows fate might bring him to his death.…

    • 1127 Words
    • 5 Pages
    Superior Essays
  • Superior Essays

    His inclination to want to aid others and his commendable reputation makes him the embodiment of an idol for his people. Beowulf exemplifies the qualities of an epic hero due to his immense bravery,…

    • 1165 Words
    • 5 Pages
    Superior Essays