Beowulf and The Lord of the Rings

During the Anglo-Saxon period and Medieval Ages, cultural influences, including religion and social status, affected the characteristics of a hero. During these two time periods, characteristics between heroes shared similarities and some differences. Beowulf and the main characters of The Lord of the Rings were the upmost example of what a hero should be. All heroes are expected to have strength, glory, and wisdom. Chivalry and responsibility were also inspirational traits. Heroes are expected to be physically and mentally resilient. Each of these traits reflects the elements of a heroic tale. All heroic tales involved the elements of weaponry and treasure. All heroes are also required to go on an adventure or more in order to defeat a monster or monsters. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, and the heroic epic of Beowulf, translated by Clarence Griffin Child, continue to follow similar guidelines, events, and share similar characteristics despite their different time periods and influential cultures. However, they also demonstrate some dissimilarity that reflects the contrast among other heroes.

Both Beowulf and The Lord of the Rings are influenced by their own cultural time period. Beowulf is influenced by the Anglo-Saxon/Germanic period. During this time period, physical brute was expected among all men. However, The Lord of the Rings is influenced by a different cultural time period during the Medieval Ages. During this time period, chivalry, wisdom, and an ability to mentally defeat inner conflict and doubts were admired. These differences illustrate the diverse admirations of the people of each cultural background. Both of these tales contain traits within their context and characters that reflect their individual cult...

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