The Tragic Hero In Beowulf As An Epic Hero

Although the protagonist Beowulf was already a hero at start, development and growth were crucial and fundamental necessities in a typical hero’s expedition in achieving something of enormous value for both himself and those around him. In the beginning of the epic poem Beowulf, the main character had already portrayed his heroic nature through his gallantry in the stories that he told and the trials that he was involved in. Beowulf establishes himself as an epic hero by demonstrating core characteristics throughout his journey; they include the idea of restitution, resurrection, and the most important one of them all, his flaw. With his many calls to adventure, Beowulf certainly exemplified superhuman strength and courage when going up against …show more content…
In simpler terms, the hubris is a major characteristic that helps define the Scandinavian protagonist of the poem, Beowulf, as a wondrous example of a valorous and mighty epic hero.
There is no doubt in mind that Beowulf is swollen with pride for his accomplishments and victories. His pride does not go unnoticed, but rather becomes detrimental when he encounters an enemy he cannot defeat, unscathed and alone. His flaw is demonstrated in this example, “Until at last, overweening pride grows and develops within him, and the soul-warden slumbers…” (Roberts 61) Hubris can also be observed here, “I am bold in spirit, and so I forbear more boasts against this winged warrior… This is not your fight, nor is it fitting for any but me alone to test my might against this monster and achieve heroism. I shall win …show more content…
His resurrection is demonstrated in this example, “The valorous king unclasped a gold collar from his neck and gave it to his vassal, along with the bright golden helmet, breastplate, and ring. He bid the youthful thane use them in joy… This word was the last one harbored in the heart of that wise old man before he chose the hot, consuming flames of the death pyre.” (Roberts 88) Here, the element of resurrection was most fitting because after Beowulf finished his term of rule, he passed on the authority and position to his descendant, the deserving vassal by the name of Wiglaf. With that, the honor and glory earned with the title as king did not end short; rather instead, it continued along the line. As a warrior though, Beowulf was naïve in the way that he acted among others of his kind and boastful in the way that he described his stories of his battles to them. Contrastingly, as a king, he was more loyal to the people of his kingdom in which he reigned over. He wished to leave a legacy for all to remember and hold dear to their hearts. Loyalty and dedication were Beowulf’s qualifying characteristics as an epic hero that was demonstrated in his heroic battle with the ultimate opponent: the monstrous dragon. His shift in social status and position from a dignified warrior to the ruling king of the Geats also accentuates his