Beowulf's Motivations As An Epic Hero

Motivations

(An Analysis of Beowulf’s Three Motivations as an Epic Hero)

Are epic heroes defined by their feats? Or their motivations? Perhaps the psychological analysis of a hero’s motivations will illuminate their character more than a discussion of their accomplishments. One such hero with clear motivations, is the class Beowulf. As possibly the first example of a superhero in Western Civilization, Beowulf deserves an in depth analysis of his motivations, such as duty, desire to be a hero, and leaving a legacy for his people.

Easily the most basic of motivations for Beowulf, is his sense of duty to people in need of assistance. The Anglo-Saxon civilization believed strongly in the group rather than individual. If an individual had the

ability to help the group, it was his moral duty to help. This extended to other civilizations as well. In his introduction to Hrothgar, Beowulf says, “...My people have said, the wisest, most knowing and best of them, that my duty was to go to the Danes’ Great king,” (47). As the legend of Grendel grew, Geats began to question how long it would take before the monster came into their land. Naturally, Beowulf had an obligation to help those in need. “He was duty bound to fight, not to question why he fought,” (Marks). Duty is the first tier of motivation for Beowulf in his conquest of otherworldly beasts.
Displayed by his request to help Hrothgar, Beowulf is motivated by the desire to be the a hero in addition to his sense of duty.

Growing up performing countless superhuman feats, Beowulf is no stranger to celebration. While his first reason to help the Danes is a sense of obligation, there is no question that he will cherish his success if he returns home victorious. “He wishes to extend his honour and title through acts of glory,” (Artman). Upon meeting Hrothgar, Beowulf essentially begs to help their civilization. “That this one favor you should not refuse me- that I, alone and with the help of my men, may purge all evil from this hall,” (48). Once the mother of Grendel reveals herself, Beowulf insists on staying to rid the Danes of yet another monster. “Even after slaying Grendel, Beowulf assumes the role of vigilant hero again when Grendel’s mother appears as a threat,” (Caroline). It is clear that Beowulf desires to prove himself a worthy hero once

more.
Later in his lifetime, Beowulf displays the desire to leave a lasting legacy for his people by sacrificing his life to defeat an unconquerable dragon.

“Even in his old age, his code of honor still obligates him to fight against an evil, fiery dragon,” (Sigona). Without hesitation, Beowulf goes with a group of men to defend his homeland from this beast of epic proportions. To Beowulf’s disadvantage, all of his men flee, save for one, Wiglaf. This single soldier returns to help his mortally wounded king kill the dragon. In addition to naming Wiglaf his heir to the throne, Beowulf makes one last request before death. Beowulf asks that his tomb should be made near the water's edge, and a lighthouse memorial be made to him. “Have the brave Geats build me a tomb, when the funeral flames have burned me, and build it here, at the water’s edge, high on this spit of land, so sailors can see this tower, and remember my name,” (62). As he was a shining example of courage to his people in life, he simply wishes to lead future warriors to safety in death. “He hopes to be remembered by his people, which indicates he does not foresee their imminent destruction,” (Lengers). This conclusion to the story suggests that Beowulf fears no attack on his nation in the foreseeable future, after his

death.
In conclusion, it is clear that Beowulf was ultimately motivated through duty, desire, and the intention to leave a legacy. Great men of history are more often defined by their motivations, rather than their accomplishments. The true measure of character is not what has been done, but how it has been accomplished. History has proven this separation between great heroes, and epic heroes.