Why Beowulf Should Be Considered Heroic

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Why Beowulf Should Be Considered Heroic. What is a hero? According to Webster's Dictionary: a hero is a person who is admired for a brave act. Actions are not the only thing that determine if someone is a hero- qualities play a big role as well. One might have done a heroic act but have terrible qualities, but that is not the case when it comes to Beowulf. Beowulf performed many heroic acts all in which he was victorious. The Geatish hero fought Grendel, Grendel’s mom, and a dragon. He was admired for all three heroic acts. Along with these heroic acts he had qualities that heroes are known to have. Beowulf had all of the following qualities: strength, loyalty, courage, braveness, faith, and many others. He should be considered heroic due to his admired acts and his heroic qualities. To begin with, most heroes have non- human strength- such that as Beowulf's. Beowulf fought Grendel unarmed and ripped his arm off. This demon now realizes that Beowulf is like no other man- his strength is non human. Not only that, but the fact that this warrior was brave enough to face him without protection shows that …show more content…

Due to his victory with Grendel and Grendel’s mother Hrothgar rewarded him with treasure. Beowulf brings back his treasure to his kingdom and gives it to his king. Beowulf had no need in doing so. This action shows that he is loyal to his king. Something that not all heros might have. Years pass and Beowulf becomes king. He is now old and worn out. A thief steals from a dragon and decides to attack Beowulf’s kingdom. Beowulf decides to fight the dragon despite the fact that he is old and weak, of course he dies. Beowulf is loyal to his people and fights till his death instead of sending others to fight for him. “And may the Divine Lord in His wisdom grant the glory of victory to whichever side He sees fit” (Line 677-687). Before his battle with Grendel he says a prayer showing he is

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