Epic Hero Characteristics

Characteristics of an epic hero

“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others, at whatever cost” (Ashe). Every epic hero has a story that talks about the heroic things they do. Take Beowulf for example, he’s done many things that have risked his life to protect the lives of the Anglo Saxon society. So why exactly is Beowulf considered an epic hero? Beowulf is an excellent example of an archetypical hero because he has superhuman strength, is significant and glorified, and he risks his life for the greater good of society. First, Beowulf has superior superhuman strength, intelligence, and/or courage. Beowulf has chosen to help Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, with the task of killing a monster, known as Grendel, that has been terrorizing the Danes for 12 long winters, while 30 men were killed in the process. Beowulf is accepted and

When he has a challenge, Beowulf is the type of hero to never back down so easily. One way Beowulf risks his life is when he battles the monster, known as Grendel, who has killed 30 men in the past. Not only did he have to risk his life to fight Grendel, but he risks his life again when he fought against a new threat, and this threat was known as Grendel’s mother, who seeked revenge for the death of Grendel. Beowulf wins the fight against Grendel’s mom. Fifty years later, Beowulf is now the king of the Geats, and one day, a fire-breathing dragon terrorizes the land of the Geats. Before Beowulf goes to fight the dragon, he makes his final boast. “I’ve 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” (Beowulf). Beowulf, now old and weaker, once again risks his life in order to protect his people, only this time, he knows he is going to