Beowulf
Essay by 24 • May 27, 2011 • 466 Words (2 Pages) • 1,081 Views
The epic poem "Beowulf", is written by an unknown author in the Anglo-Saxon times. The hero, Beowulf, is a seemingly invincible person that is able to use his super-human physical strength and courage to put his people before himself. He encounters hideous monsters and the most ferocious of beasts but he never fears the threat of death. Beowulf is the ultimate epic hero who risks his life countless times for immortal glory and for the good of others.
Beowulf is strong enough to kill the monster Grendel, who has been terrorizing the Danes for twelve years, with his bare hands by ripping off his arm. When Beowulf is fighting Grendel's mother, who is seeking revenge on her son's death, he is able to slay her by slashing the monster's neck with a Giant's sword that can only be lifted by a person as strong as Beowulf. When he chops off her head, he carries it from the ocean with ease, but it takes four men to lift and carry it back to Herot mead-hall. This strength is a key trait of Beowulf's heroism. Another heroic trait of Beowulf is his ability to put his peoples' welfare before his own. Beowulf's uncle is king of the Geats so he is sent as an emissary to help rid the Danes of the evil Grendel. Beowulf risks his own life for the
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He knew that it could breath fire, so he got a shield that would protect him. As Beowulf got older he became more sensible and wiser. He never let this go to his head and he never thought that he was better than everyone else because of it. That is why Beowulf lost to the dragon. He always explains his death wishes before going into battle and requests to have any assets delivered to his people. By engaging in this foolish contest, Beowulf nearly got himself killed trying to prove he was better than Brecca. Even in death he wished so secure safety for the Geats so a tall lighthouse is built in order to help the people find there
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