In Beowulf, there are several versions of the mythological/archetypal heroes and outcasts. An archetypal hero is described as, “a figure larger than life, whose search for self-identity and/or self-fulfillment results in his own destruction.” An archetypal outcast is described as, “a character who is separated from (or separates him or herself from) society due to a physical impairment or an emotional or physiological realization that makes this character different.” Beowulf endeavors many different heroic and brave scenarios, but he also sets himself apart from others at the same time. Wiglaf experiences a courageous fight with the dragon, which shows he has heroic characteristics as well. However, he separates himself from others when…show more content… Without his help, Beowulf would have had a more difficult time defeating the dragon, and the battle would not have ended as well as it did. Wiglaf is an example of a mythological hero; he sets examples for the people to fight for what they believe in and stay loyal to their leaders. Wiglaf is also considered an outcast when he tells the people to not be cowards and help Beowulf in this difficult situation. The others are afraid to be involved in the battle, but Wiglaf is ready to risk his life to help. He is the only one that stands with Beowulf during the fight with the dragon. Therefore, Wiglaf is an example of both the hero and the…show more content… The author of this novel describes these characters as monsters, which in most minds are physically different than humans; monsters are known to be fearsome. Their family line was cursed due to Cain’s harsh actions. Cain killed his brother, so God punished him. Grendel tortured and terrorized other people because he was envious of their happiness and purity. He did not want to be cursed for actions he did not commit. He attacked Heorot, the mead hall, for several years every night and killed numerous people. Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, gave up eventually and could not fight Grendel any longer. Grendel was the monster all the Danes feared, and they tried to keep their distance. Grendel’s mother was considered an outcast with her actions to avenge the death of her son. She also attacked Heorot, killed one of Hrothgar’s best friends, and took Grendel’s arm back to the lair with her. The Danes were afraid of her after the attack. They helped Beowulf get ready to fight her in the
