Beowulf: An Epic Hero

BEOWULF: AN EPIC HERO

An epic hero is defined as a larger than life hero who embodies the values of a particular society. Commonly epic heroes have superior strength, care for their people, are fearless of death, and are very fair people. They have a significant birth and show great bravery. They show great intelligence and inventiveness. They also think about the values of their society and morals as well. They usually are dominant male figures and suffer severe pain, but in the end, they conquer over evil.

An epic hero is someone who is on a quest, risks his or her life for glory or fame, and embodies the ideals or values of his or her culture. Clearly Beowulf possesses all of these necessities of an epic hero. Even though he is famous for his massive strength, Beowulf has other attributes that are noticeable other than his strength. These attributes, arrogance, bravery, and a strong love for his people are what make Beowulf become such a powerful, epic hero. Beowulf is arrogant. He constantly brags about his supreme strength.

One of the essentials that Beowulf possesses is the avid desire for a quest. Beowulf is measured as an immense quest seeker by taking the initiative to accept the first mission to kill Grendel. Immediately, after hearing about the events that occurred, Beowulf swiftly reacts to the situation by accepting an additional quest. These are just some of the signs that verify Beowulf as a true epic hero. In addition to Beowulf's heroic qualities, he is very strong. Beowulf was involved in many supernatural battles and events. In Beowulf, amazing aspects are everywhere which also make it an epic poem, they include a fire breathing dragon and sea monsters.

Early proof of Beowulf's extraordinary strength is shown by his dismemberment of Grendel's limb, the fight in the cave under water, and the magic sword. Beowulf also fought Grendel's mother in the lake.