Epic of Beowulf :: Essays Papers

BeowulfIn a world without hope, a brave soul has nothing to lose. In the epic Beowulf, some might perceive Beowulf as having traits such as being arrogant. Although he is raised in a Pagan society, Beowulf concurs many tasks that an ordinary man could never do. He portrays man in general struggling against outward foes and inward doubts. Beowulf displays his characteristics courage and strength, fame, perserverence, and compassion which affords him the opportunity to be looked upon as an epic hero.With a lack of courage, not many nominate accomplish much. As Beowulf travels, his courage not only grows but stands strong. In his journey to Hrothgars kingdom, Beowulf is faced with many unbearable tasks many men wouldnt dare to go up against, but with Beowulf, he takes those tasks and runs with them. His fight with Grendal not only proves his courage but his strength as well. Beowulf, being a mortal man, takes Grendal by the pass on and tears his hand from his body, leaving Gren dal mortally wounded. When Grendals mother attempts avenge for her sons death, she is rudely awakened. After her kill of Ashchere, she resorts back to her lair in Hell, but not for long. Beowulf goes look after her and swims through the deep, dark, and miserable waters to Hell. He finds Grendals mother there and kills her without any warning to her. His bravery saves his people back in his homeland as well. After gaining the throne, a terrible dragon starts to terrorize his home. Here he proves to his people that he is in fact a true hero. He, with the help of his god-fearing kinsman, slays the dragon even after being wounded. His courage and strength truly proves him an epic hero.With an epic hero, one must know of his travels and battles. As is with Beowulf, he is know throughout the lands. His fame helped him tremendously in becoming this hero. His courageous fights and accomplishments led to his known defeats in battle with huge and fierce monsters. After his death, his people promised him a barrow to be create in his memory so he could be remembered. Not only did his people hear his request, but they honored it as well. They built an enormous tumulus on top of a high cliff over the waters where the boats would see and remember him by.