Heroism In The Epic Poem 'Beowulf'

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Pages: 3
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Noemy Cazares
Ms. Radovicich
English IV
18 September 2017
Heroism
Beowulf is an epic poem that was written during the 11th century. “Beowulf”, is the protagonist’s name whose actions define him as an epic hero. His qualities consist of his showing of bravery and responsibility.
Bravery
The text starts off introducing Beowulf as great warrior. “So. The Spear-Danes in days gone by and the kings who ruled them had courage and greatness. We have heard of those princes’ heroic campaigns” (1). It presents the Spear-Danes were going to be celebrated due to their bravery and heroism. He then swims against Becca where he is dragged to the bottom of the sea by a monster. He once shows bravery again, when he kills 9 monsters while he was dragged. After …show more content…
The hero is tested, often to prove the worthiness of himself and his quest. Defeating many monsters and foes to make his kingdom safe, and receive fame. He stops Grendel, cuts his arm off, and kills him with no armor proving inhuman strength. He also kills Grendel’s mother with a magical sword within her lair. He’s proved himself in many battles from being prince to king. Another deed he’s committed was slaying the dragon, even though his men left him, he still attempted the battle. He killed the dragon with the help of Wiglaf, dying a noble warrior and epic …show more content…
Beowulf’s courage comes from the ability to fight on and complete his deed, even after all his men but one abandoned him on his final fight against the dragon. After Beowulf is left dying, he does not try to escape, he stays until the end of the fight and finishes it. An example of him showing to be a strong and responsible leader is leading the way. Beowulf stepped up for his people and his men, and defeated the dragon. He sacrificed his own life so that his people could leave peacefully again. He stepped up when no one else would, called his men, and convinced them to battle when they were need in the final fight. Defined by his strength, courage, loyalty, leadership, and values, is what makes Beowulf the epic hero of the story. He completed quests no one else would do, saved people, and sacrificed himself to protect his kingdom. He shares all the elements of an epic hero, and that’s what makes him the hero of the
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