What makes a hero a hero? A good definition of an epic hero is from John M. Steadman’s “The Idea of Satan as the Hero of "Paradise Lost"” “The epic hero must demonstrate his heroism through his military strength and skill. Physical fortitude was thus a sine qua non, though it might be combined with other and more amiable qualities: strength of mind as well as body prudence, magnanimity temperance and piety.”(p. 256). One of the first epic heroes written about in British literature is Beowulf. In the middle ages he posses all of the qualities that their version of a hero should have. Beowulf is the strongest and most brave of any man. He exemplifies generosity and loyalty to his people. Beowulf knows that he is the best and his pride can get the best of him, becoming arrogant.
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When he dies the people build a tower in his memory. Beowulf had all of the traits of a medieval hero. He was loyal, courageous and strong. He handled every situations that came at him no matter the outcome. “Paradise Lost” is another epic poem by John Milton. Many consider Satan to be the hero of Paradise lost. Satan is cast into hell by God because if his own pride. Satan believes what he has done is right and he wants to be equal with God. Satan was disloyal to God and was cast out of heaven so that he may be the ruler of his own world working to be equal with God. He believes that even though he’s evil, they are going to bring forth good. Satan is fearless for going against God and takes whatever he feels God throws at him. Satan displays his disloyalty to God, courageous behavior to fight God the all powerful, but is destined to death because of his pride. While only Beowulf remained loyal to his people, both he and Satan in “Paradise Lost” exemplify courage and
When he dies the people build a tower in his memory. Beowulf had all of the traits of a medieval hero. He was loyal, courageous and strong. He handled every situations that came at him no matter the outcome. “Paradise Lost” is another epic poem by John Milton. Many consider Satan to be the hero of Paradise lost. Satan is cast into hell by God because if his own pride. Satan believes what he has done is right and he wants to be equal with God. Satan was disloyal to God and was cast out of heaven so that he may be the ruler of his own world working to be equal with God. He believes that even though he’s evil, they are going to bring forth good. Satan is fearless for going against God and takes whatever he feels God throws at him. Satan displays his disloyalty to God, courageous behavior to fight God the all powerful, but is destined to death because of his pride. While only Beowulf remained loyal to his people, both he and Satan in “Paradise Lost” exemplify courage and