Beowulf Vs. Beast

Beowulf vs. Beast

The exact author and publication date of “Beowulf” is unknown, but the epic poem itself is a staple when discussing the literary history of the Anglo Saxon Period. An unforgettable scene in this legendary work is when Beowulf fought against the dragon that was terrorizing his kingdom. This scene epitomizes the work as a whole, because it symbolizes Beowulf’s courageous and selfless attitude. Due to the optimal traits that the main character demonstrates and the battle’s incorporation of a fictional yet intriguing creature, the scene is quite effective.

        Peace remained constant during Beowulf’s reign until a sleeping dragon awoke and began to terrorize towns. No man attempted to fight the creature due to its massive size, and Beowulf decided that he would fight it. The hero was old at this point, but he summoned all the strength he had for the quarrel. Beowulf became weaker as the fight went on, but his valiance never vacillated. The dragon stabbed Beowulf with its tusk, but a young fighter helped the hero defeat the monster. Beowulf was not forced to participate in this battle; he instead chose to fight in it, because he knew that the melee would be for the greater good.

        Beowulf knew that his body was weak, but he also knew that his heart was willing and that his subjects needed him most at that time, so he fought the beast with the intention of improving his people’s lives at the potential expense of his own. Two factors make this scene effective in conveying a great image to the reader: Beowulf’s tremendous self-sacrifice for his people and the amazing creature Beowulf fights. The protagonist’s self-sacrifice should be looked at idealistically, and a dragon is a creature that could spark anyone’s interest.

        “Beowulf” is an incredible epic poem filled with may memorable scenes. When Beowulf fights the dragon, his valor and selflessness are plainly incredible and are things everyone should strive to emulate.