Beowulf's Heroic Traits

In the epic poem “Beowulf,” I would consider Beowulf to be an hero. Throughout the story, Beowulf is portrayed as the good guy whom is constantly battling and slaying the evils that terrorize himself and his people. He always swoops in at the right time to save the day regardless of the circumstances. Some heroic traits that Beowulf possesses include: his strength, his bravery, and his honesty.

From the beginning of the story, Beowulf demonstrates great amounts of strength. “Nor have I seen a mightier man-at-arms on this earth than the one standing here: unless I am mistaken, he is truly noble,” (Lines 244-251). After being called upon by Hrothgar to save

Heorot, Beowulf first shows his strength in his encounter with Grendal. He does so by

He also demonstrates his strength in his encounters with Grendal’s mom and the fierce dragon.

Beowulf also proves his huge amount of bravery throughout the story. He was very brave in facing and defeating Grendal in his first battle ever, and also by doing so without any weaponry. He is also very brave when he goes in search of Grendal’s mom in her underwater cave and proceeds to defeat her as well. Finally in his battle with the dragon, Beowulf proves his bravery by not backing down to anyone or anything regardless of the size. “The man whose name was known for courage, the Great leader, resolute in his helmet, answered in return: ‘We are retainers from Hygelac’s band. Beowulf is my name,’” (Lines 340-343).

Lastly, I would classify Beowulf as an epic hero because of his honesty. Honesty is a vital trait in a hero because it shows how good of a person you truly are and makes you more favorable and trustworthy among everyone else. Beowulf’s honesty and integrity is shown throughout the story in that all of his people love him and commend him for his battle efforts. He is awarded the crown for fifty years for his victories. It is also shown when he chooses not