Heroic Code In Beowulf

The Heroic Code In Homeric Poems and Beowulf

In Beowulf and all of the Homeric epics there's one very broad theme displayed as the main focal point which is heroism. Just like many other works of literary art, they both seem to have a broad similarity of the idea of heroism, but the foundations of what it means to be a hero is sometimes represented differently in these pieces. With all stories about heroes, there are certain heroic codes that must be followed and maintained by the people in these stories.

Two of Homer's most common and famous works are the Iliad and the Odyssey. The Iliad and the Odyssey were both epic poems written around the 8th century.In the Iliad people really show that they would rather die fighting than live as a …show more content…
Beowulf displays more of the Germanic heroic code. This code means to be a hero you also have to display good morality and a good reputation. During this time, your family played a large part in determining your reputation. You were typically known by your parents and their nobility and rank. Beowulf's father was a great warrior and his mother was a relative of the king. He displays bravery and selflessness when he risks his life to defeat Grendel and his mother and then dies from his wounds after defeating a dragon for the safety of the Geats.

Beowulf is a knowledgeable leader and demonstrates values of a true warrior and hero.

He was a major hero who defeated monsters and a dragons, while in Homer they deal more with people, wars and gods. Both Beowulf and Homer follow the heroic code but in different ways. Beowulf portrays more of a willingness to sacrifice himself for the good of the people as

he did this by fighting Grendel to honor his father.

Honor is the major part of the heroic code. These heroic codes were the foundation of which these people seemed to base their lives on, whether they were fighting a battle or just in living their everyday lives. A hero fights and defeats all odds, shows strength, and has the courage to do what no one else is brave enough to

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