Beowulf Static Or Dynamic Essay

He is the poem’s epic hero, the macho man, the beloved leader, he is Beowulf. When asked to identify Beowulf’s character type as either dynamic, a literary or dramatic character who undergoes an important innerchange, as a change in personality or attitude, or static, a literary or dramatic character who undergoes little or no innerchange; a character who does not grow or develop, static seemed to be the best fit. Although it can be argued either way, I believe the character Beowulf identifies more as a static character. While he physically grows older and changes throughout the poem, when talking about his true character, Beowulf overall undergoes little change and remains fairly consistent as a character. From the beginning to the end of the poem, Beowulf plays the leadership role, displays immense confidence and can be labeled as a loyal hero.

Beowulf is characterized as a leader from start to finish. In the beginning of the story, Beowulf, a Geat thane, catches wind of the monster Grendel and decides he wants to assist, “so Beowulf chose the mightiest men he could find, the bravest and the best of the Geats, fourteen in all, and led them

Beowulf consistently displays extreme confidence throughout the poem. As the story progress, Beowulf’s confidence remains the same. When anticipating his battle with the dragon, Beowulf evaluates himself, “I have never known fear, as a youth I fought in endless battles. I am old, now, but I will fight again, seek fame still, if the dragon hiding in his tower dares to face me” (606-610). While evaluating the possible outcomes of the battle, the King reassures his people, “no one else could do what I mean to , here, no man but me could hope to defeat this monster. No one could try. And the dragon’s treasure, his gold and everything hidden in that tower, will be mine or war will sweep me to a bitter death” (624-632). His determination and confidence are made