The Legend Of Beowulf: The Anglo-Saxon Hero

The origin of the legend, Beowulf, is as mystical as the story itself. Found in a single manuscript, with its edges burnt from a fire, the actual author remains unknown. The first telling of Beowulf is presumed to be before the Anglo-Saxon era, and the time period of the legend is believed to be even before that. Consequently, the Anglo-Saxon rendition of the tale of Beowulf is a rendition. For the Anglo-Saxon’s, Beowulf was not just a tale of legend, but a tale of lust for what has passed. To them, Beowulf was the ideal warrior—the man that all men wished to be. This idolization of Beowulf reveals the people’s heroic ideal. The hero must be strong, brave, and dutiful. These values were later reflected into Early English artwork. The most palpable quality in a hero which the Anglo-Saxons revered is strength. Above all else, a hero must be a man who has the power to defeat his enemies. Beowulf becomes the paradigm for might by defeating not one, but three separate monsters. Again and again Beowulf tests his strength, and his opponents learn his supremacy. For example, Grendel quickly

Beowulf makes a point to use his strength for the greater good, not just for his own honor. He travels to Denmark not just to prove his own reputation, but the reputation of the land and people he represents. His offer of protection is not in his own name, but in the name of Hygelac. Ultimately, Beowulf’s protection is an extension of diplomacy. The importance of a man who fights for his home country is paramount. Beowulf may seem like a flat character, but his dissociation is what makes him the ideal soldier in the sentiments of the Anglo-Saxons that read Beowulf. Beowulf was a man undisturbed by selfish thoughts or feelings. He fought bravely, with great force, and most importantly, in the name of his