The Epic Hero In Beowulf: The Epic Hero

Beowulf: The Epic Hero

Throughout time, society has come in contact with individuals who are praised due to their bravery, loyalty, strength and a tendency to go beyond the limit. One may call this individual a hero, and if asked to give some examples of heroism, one may pick the classical literary hero Beowulf. According to Roger B. Rolling, Beowulf is classified as a Type I hero who, “if superior in degree to other men but not to his natural environment, … is a leader. He has authority, passions, and powers of expression far greater than ours but is subject both to social criticism and to the order of nature” (434). Beowulf’s heroism is exemplified first when he kills Grendel, then when he kills Grendel’s mother, and finally when he kills the Dragon. Also, Beowulf shows all of the characteristics and traits that a true hero possesses, such as honor, bravery, strength,

After Beowulf serves as King of the Geats for fifty years, he goes to battle one last time to fight a horrible Dragon that is terrifying his people. While others cower, Beowulf shows signs of bravery that define him as a hero. An example of Beowulf showing bravery is when he goes to slay the Dragon even though all his men abandon him. He realizes that the Dragon is more powerful than he is, but he will still not back down.

While engaging the Dragon in combat, Beowulf runs into complications with it and realizes that his sword can do no damage. Beowulf finds himself in defeat for the first time. However, Wiglaf, one of Beowulf’s kinsmen, comes to his aid and together with the combination of courage and strength delivers a deathblow to the Dragon. Although Beowulf is mortally wounded and is about to die, he passes the throne to Wiglaf and gives thanks to God for the treasure they receive from the Dragon’s hoard. This ends Beowulf’s third and final heroic battle in this case with the