Greed In Beowulf

It is well known that the greatest heroes protect the weak and uphold values such as courage, compassions, and diligence. Heroes have existed since the beginning of time in epic poems and tales of chivalry. Despite the many centuries of literary heroes, there is one question seldom asked of heroes in great epics: why? Why do heroes give up their personal happiness for the betterment of society? John Leyerle in his book, Beowulf the Hero and the King, describes the perfect hero as a contradiction in itself, “The hero follows a code that exalts indomitable will and valor in the individual, but society requires a king who acts for the common good, not for his own glory.” The ancient Anglo-Saxon epic, Beowulf, certainly provides such a hero as

Beowulf geos to defeat the dragon alone. No man wishes to die alone and in pain, no matter how much glory can be attained. Beowulf has a motivation stronger than riches or duty, he has a love for his people. Before he dies, Beowulf tells Wiglaf that he wishes a lighthouse to be raised in his honor. In lines 823-830, he says, “Have the brave Geats build me a tomb when the funeral flames have burned me, and build it here, at the water’s edge, high on this spit of land, so sailors can see this tower, and remember my name, and call it Beowulf’s tower.” Even after his death, Beowulf would continue to give guidance and help to his people through the form of a lighthouse. Beowulf’s lived his life as the perfect warrior, protecting his own with steadfast strength. The effect of Beowulf’s loyalty to his people can be seen in the final moments of his life. When the fire of the Dragon rained down, Wiglaf rushed to his beloved king’s aid. Norma Hutman says, “On both sides of the social bond of king and subject, commitment is paramount. In Wifglaf’s final exhortation to Beowulf, the role of volition is reaffirmed, a commitment even in the face of fate.” Loyalty insists loyalty in return; the proof that Beowulf remained a devoted king is in his loyal