Examples Of Courage In Beowulf

One of the most important values that Beowulf’s character embodies is courage. From the start of the poem the author lets us know that courage is a much-valued quality in the Anglo-Saxon warrior culture. “So. The Spear-Danes in days gone by and the kings who ruled them had courage and greatness. We have heard of those princes' heroic campaigns (Greenblatt, p.41).” The author is using this to let us know that the Spear-Danes will be remembered because of their courage. This is important because it tells us that it is only through courage that you are never forgotten.
Beowulf even tells us that courage is even more important than fate. "Often, for undaunted courage, fate spares the man it has not already marked (Greenblatt, p. p.53)." The author is using this as an example to say that if fate had not sealed your future, you could overcome through your courage and bravery. It is through a brave and courageous reputation that the warriors and kings will live on. “Let whoever can win glory before death. When a warrior is gone, that will be his best and only bulwark (Greenblatt, p. 71). The author is using this to show that the Anglo-Saxon culture was not interested in going to heaven. They were interested in leaving a legend about how courageous they were behind. Through their reputation is how they gained …show more content…
The author uses the battle with Grendel to show that Beowulf has the strength that is required of a great leader. "I have heard moreover that the monster scorns in his reckless way to use weapons; therefore, to heighten Hygelac's fame and gladden his heart, I hereby renounce sword and the shelter of the broad shield, the heavy war-board: hand-to-hand is how it will be, a life-and-death fight with the fiend (Greenblatt, p. 50)." The author is using this to show that Beowulf is so strong that he can battle the monster through hand to hand combat. Beowulf is also courageous enough to do