Beowulf: A True Epic Hero Essay

Beowulf: A True Epic Hero

An epic hero in literature is a character who is larger than life. Modern day heroes are constantly threatened by death, but they never die, such as the Hulk or Superman. Another type of hero is a merely athletically inclined individual, like Alex Rodriguez. The epic hero has many characteristics that stand out, such as bravery, loyalty, and heroism. Beowulf is the universal story of man's journey from youth to adulthood to old age and the growth in wisdom about self and the world gained through the pain and triumph of experience.

For instance, at Beowulfs first arrival at Herot, he is a young warrior and he wants to prove that he is a magnificent warrior. In order to achieve this status, Beowulf boasts with his stories and accomplishments. He states that the Witon of the Geats saw his great strength when he drove five great giants into chains, chased all of that race from the earth. He assures Hrothgar that Grendel is no match for him and, that Beowulf does not even need weapons. Beowulf also wears his mailshirt, which is very rare during the Anglo-Saxon era and means he is an amazing warrior. Everything about Beowulf including his actions, words, and his clothing stands out amongst others.

Next, Beowulfs battle against Grendel is a step towards becoming a true epic hero. Beowulf fought Grendel, the guardian of crime himself, with his bare hands. The significance of using only his hands battling Grendel is emphasized by the fact that when his Geats try to assist him it is pointless since: The sharpest and hardest iron could not scratch at his skin. Beowulf rips off Grendels shoulder during battle and offers it to the heavens. Beowulf has reached the status of becoming a hero and is now on his way to becoming an epic hero.

Afterwards, Beowulf is asked by Hrothgar to defeat Grendels mother, the ketta. This is his next leap into becoming a larger than life character. Beowulf dove into that lake and for hours he sank through the waves, which shows that Beowulf is no average warrior. Beowulf battles Grendels mother and defeats her using the super natural sword made by the giants. Beowulf shows his endless strength and brute power that he can lift the sword. When Beowulf defeats the ketta he attains superhero status. Beowulf has now reached the absolute highest title that is possible, no other warrior has reached in his society.

Eventually, Beowulf becomes the lord of the Geats. He is faced with his biggest task yet with a battle against a dragon; however, he is fighting for gold for his people not for safety this time. Beowulf has gotten older and just before entering the cave he tells his men my heart is firm, my hands calm: I need no hot words. Wait for me close by, my friends. Beowulf is lacking in confidence, and he actually uses weapons for the first time. Beowulf and his only faithful thane, Wiglaf, defeat the dragon; however, Beowulf is seriously injured. Beowulf passes away, but before he does he gives Wiglaf the title of being the lord of the Geats. Beowulf was the greatest warrior and prince and he would be honored rightfully so.

Accordingly, Beowulf was the perfect example of an epic hero. He went through many rites of passages, and his death was disappointing because his men broke the doctrine of comitatus. Beowulf was honored with a tower to remind everybody of him and of the kind of character had been during his lifetime. Beowulf is an epic hero because of his outstanding fighting skills, his immense strength, and finally his vast loyalty.