Beowulf is an epic poem that has captivated readers for centuries. It tells the story of Beowulf, the “heroes of all heroes” and savior of the Danes and Geats. Beowulf represents what a true hero should be, not just in his time, but throughout history. In contrast, Grendel, his mother and the dragon share characteristics that accurately portray them as villains. So it is only natural that conflict would arise between the virtuous hero and the dangerous villains that around him. This leads to the most prominent theme in the epic poem Beowulf: Good versus Evil. Beowulf feels it is his responsibility to rid the land of those who wish to cause harm.
Beowulf is a fierce and strong Geat warrior during the Anglo Saxon period in 700 A.D. Beowulf has many qualities that portray him as an epic hero. He has a strong desire to protect the Dane and Geat Kingdoms. Beowulf has a sense of duty when he chooses to fight Grendel due to the friendship that his father and King Hrothgar share. He has a strong sense of confidence that allows him to go into battle with determination. “Alone now with Grendel. I shall manage the matter” Beowulf believes he is able to battle Grendel, the demon who has been attacking the Danes, on his own (Beowulf). Beowulf is also significantly strong physically and has this ability to fight against anyone in his path “To Beowulf was given Glory in battle; Grendel from thence ward must flee and hide him in the fen-cliffs and marshes” (Beowulf). He is able to defeat both Grendel and his mother on his own. Even in his old age he is able to defeat a massive dragon that threatens his kingdom. Lastly, Beowulf has a sense of justice, which is shown when he must rule the Geat kingdom after the fall of King Hygelac. He cannot stand to just watch as his kingdom is destroyed by a dragon and feel it is his responsibility to assist in killing the creature. Even though Beowulf is killed in his battle against the dragon, he will always be remembered as a true hero. In contrast to Beowulf, the three main antagonists in the story have devious characteristics. Grendel is the first villain Beowulf comes across in the epic poem. Grendel is monster that feels the desire to harm the Danes, simply because he is envious of their joy, showing the characteristic of jealousy. Further portraying him as a monster, Grendel devours the men rather than simply killing them “The monster of evil fiercely did harass” (Beowulf). His tyrannical deeds continued until Beowulf was able to defeat the beast. Next Beowulf would have to battle Grendel’s Mother, who seeks revenge against him and the Danes after her son is defeated. She is not as strong as her son but is willing to cause harm simply for retribution, showing the characteristic …show more content…
Although all the antagonists, Grendel, his mother and the dragon have inhumane abilities and an immense amount of strength, they could not handle the power of the warrior, Beowulf. His physical strength could not be matched by any monster that wishes to fight him. Additionally, Beowulf’s sense of duty, honor and justice allow him to make smart choices on the battle field and on the throne. Beowulf will always be remembered as a great warrior and a great
Beowulf is a fierce and strong Geat warrior during the Anglo Saxon period in 700 A.D. Beowulf has many qualities that portray him as an epic hero. He has a strong desire to protect the Dane and Geat Kingdoms. Beowulf has a sense of duty when he chooses to fight Grendel due to the friendship that his father and King Hrothgar share. He has a strong sense of confidence that allows him to go into battle with determination. “Alone now with Grendel. I shall manage the matter” Beowulf believes he is able to battle Grendel, the demon who has been attacking the Danes, on his own (Beowulf). Beowulf is also significantly strong physically and has this ability to fight against anyone in his path “To Beowulf was given Glory in battle; Grendel from thence ward must flee and hide him in the fen-cliffs and marshes” (Beowulf). He is able to defeat both Grendel and his mother on his own. Even in his old age he is able to defeat a massive dragon that threatens his kingdom. Lastly, Beowulf has a sense of justice, which is shown when he must rule the Geat kingdom after the fall of King Hygelac. He cannot stand to just watch as his kingdom is destroyed by a dragon and feel it is his responsibility to assist in killing the creature. Even though Beowulf is killed in his battle against the dragon, he will always be remembered as a true hero. In contrast to Beowulf, the three main antagonists in the story have devious characteristics. Grendel is the first villain Beowulf comes across in the epic poem. Grendel is monster that feels the desire to harm the Danes, simply because he is envious of their joy, showing the characteristic of jealousy. Further portraying him as a monster, Grendel devours the men rather than simply killing them “The monster of evil fiercely did harass” (Beowulf). His tyrannical deeds continued until Beowulf was able to defeat the beast. Next Beowulf would have to battle Grendel’s Mother, who seeks revenge against him and the Danes after her son is defeated. She is not as strong as her son but is willing to cause harm simply for retribution, showing the characteristic …show more content…
Although all the antagonists, Grendel, his mother and the dragon have inhumane abilities and an immense amount of strength, they could not handle the power of the warrior, Beowulf. His physical strength could not be matched by any monster that wishes to fight him. Additionally, Beowulf’s sense of duty, honor and justice allow him to make smart choices on the battle field and on the throne. Beowulf will always be remembered as a great warrior and a great