Beowulf as a Precursor to Batman Essay

Batman and Beowulf

Many fictional works of literature depict some form of hero as a main character in the story. Beowulf is an epic poem, which began being told several centuries ago, that tells a story of a warrior who defended his tribe and city from deadly monsters. This story was passed down by oral tradition until 200 years after it was first told when it was written down by a Christian poet. This leads to conflict in the story because Beowulf is constantly trying to analyze his non-Christian actions with a Christian thought process.

There are many themes throughout Beowulf; however, the one that stood out the most was one stated by the Shmoop Editorial Team: All that the warrior can do is meet every challenge fearlessly, increasing his own reputation for courageous deeds, so that when he dies he will be renowned for his bravery (Shmoop Editorial Team). This theme says that in order for a warrior to increase his reputation and become known, he must take on all the challenges coming his way so that he will be known even after he is dead. The movie I chose to compare to Beowulf is Batman because both characters can relate to each other. They both do exactly what the theme is stating and do not fail to fulfill their duties.

The message that Beowulf is trying to send is that people should do what is right without seeking a reward. This story centers around the concept of bravery and loyalty. These concepts eventually evolve into the medieval code of chivalry. Batman is a modern story that can be compared to a medieval story. This says that the legacy of Beowulf was passed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years and used in modern stories to set a plot and define the characters. Batman is a perfect example of why Beowulf is meaningful because they both depict similar characters who protect and save their homelands from the force of evil. Therefore, Beowulf has been used as a source to the writer/director of Batman. Batman fights off the Joker and Two-Face who are both trying to kill all the citizens and blow up the city. Beowulf fights off Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon. Both heroes were successful in two of their battles. However, Beowulf is killed in his last battle, but he still dies with victory and dignity.

The fact that themes and other story elements from Beowulf are being used today means that it is truly an important piece of literature. Similar themes being used often clearly points out that Beowulf set the basis for modern fiction. It is considered one of the most important pieces of literature. In this story, Beowulf is constantly tested and challenged, and his status as a hero fluctuates based on his reactions to these challenges. This concept also applies to Batman because he is constantly battling with the crime in his city. They are both well-known and looked up to in their communities. People always look and call for them during times in need. Neither of these heroes seek praise and/or a reward. Their reward is having the satisfaction that the people of their city or tribe are safe and out of harm's way. They simply do it because they feel as if it is their duty, as a heroic figure, to defend their people.

In summary, Beowulf was clearly a story that will be around for a long time. It has set a strong foundation for all writers and stands as a role-model for modern fictional stories. Batman can be looked at as a similar story because he and Beowulf are both relevant characters. They both devote and risk their lives in order to protect their people. Both stories carry out the meaning of the theme: All that the warrior can do is meet every challenge fearlessly, increasing his own reputation for courageous deeds, so that when he dies he will be renowned for his bravery. As you can see, Beowulf and Batman are both stories that will be told for hundreds of centuries to come.

http://www.shmoop.com/beowulf/courage-theme.html

Shmoop Editorial Team. "Beowulf Theme of Courage" Shmoop.com. Shmoop University, Inc., 11 Nov. 2008. Web. 15 Nov. 2011.