Epic Hero In Beowulf

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The Epic Hero
Beowulf is characterized as an epic hero by possessing qualities in which common mortals lack, battling for the common good, and displaying honor in every act. An epic hero is the central character in an epic, a long narrative poem that recounts the adventures of a legendary hero in pursuit of a goal. According to Jankowski, “Understanding the significance of Beowulf 's acts requires an understanding of the key figures in the epic poem” (1). Epics have been used to preserve values and traditions. They are a rich resource for exploring the history and values of different world cultures. The epic hero character is a larger-than-life figure who is typically of noble birth. An epic hero uses his/her courage, skill, and virtue against …show more content…

Beowulf possesses each of these qualities as a young prince and an older king. He was spawned and raised by nobility and several of his qualities come from his noble background. The epic hero, Beowulf, displays honor in every act. Beowulf accepts the challenge of fighting the monster, Grendel, for the honor of helping the Geats and to honor his noble father. Beowulf is always there for his people in their time of need. Following his death, Beowulf is honored by his people. Beowulf is buried on a cliff, overlooking the sea. Buried along with Beowulf is the dragon’s treasure. But even in death, Beowulf protects his people; he is sparing them from a curse tied to the treasures. The funeral Beowulf receives pays honor to his heroic …show more content…

Beowulf possesses several distinct traits that allow him to be defined as an ideal epic hero and Anglo-Saxon hero. He is courageous, loyal, wise, and physically powerful. Beowulf puts himself through difficult situations just to keep his people safe from evil. He battles Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon for his people, though he does it for honor as well. Beowulf shows honor in all of his acts, but he is constantly seeking fame and glory through all of his accomplishments. Beowulf has the perfect qualities and characteristics it takes to be an epic

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