Epic In Beowulf

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An epic is a story that has been passed down, and written after its composition. The objective of this essay is to prove that Beowulf is, in fact, and epic. There are several tell-tale signs that make a story an epic. These include: the story starting in the middle of the action, being in an elevated style, and supernatural forces. In order to prove that Beowulf is an epic, I will be explaining why each of these factors are used in Beowulf.
In the opening scene of Beowulf, the people are dancing, and singing in their mead-hall, and the author describes how Grendel has long hated them because they are always singing loudly. The story does not say how describe how it all started. FOr instance, where did Grendel come from? Was this the first attack by Grendel? Did the Geats try to work something out with the monsters or did they just keep doing what they were doing without …show more content…
His name is Grendel, and he is constantly going after the lives of the Geats and terrorizing their homes. This supernatural force is strong, and loathsome. Grendel comes in one night and kills over 30 of the people of Herot while they are sleeping. He took their bodies and left a bloody scene, showing no mercy. The people of Herot cannot fight him since he is so strong, and powerful, so they all go into hiding, and are forced out of their city. Beowulf volunteers to stop at nothing to slay this monster, and end the chaos in Herot. The Geats depend on Beowulf, who is their hero to defeat this demon, and replenish the city of Herot, once again.
In conclusion Beowulf is a great take on an epic story, and demonstrates the factors of an epic well. These include Medias Res, having an elevated style, and a supernatural force which produces conflict for the hero. This story takes a small town hero, and tells the tale of one man who risked everything to help his people, even though he was not obligated to do

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