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Bravery In Beowulf

Decent Essays

Beowulf, originally written by an unknown author and then translated by Seamus Heaney, is believed to include the epic hero of Beowulf himself. An epic hero is one who has achieved greatness and is appreciated by others. They acquire characteristics that makes them noble and worthy of acknowledgement. Beowulf shows numerous characteristics throughout the poem, including bravery, honor, strength, and loyalty. Beowulf does things such as giving up his weapon and keeping his devotion to the Danes. Beowulf’s actions that are more impulsive show his ability to risk everything in hopes of a reasonable outcome. An epic hero acts in heroic ways, trying to do everything they can to please the ones around them and puts others before himself. The character …show more content…

Before going up against an opponent, more specifically Grendel, Beowulf sacrificed his own weapon. “He then shook off his shirt of iron mail / and helmet from his head. He gave to another / his burnished sword, the best iron for battle, / and ordered him to hold this war-gear for now” (Heaney 671-674). Beowulf was daring enough to give up his own weaponry to just get a point across. He did not think of himself to be any better, or any worse, than Grendel. He just did not believe that Grendel needed to die at that moment, even though he could have attempted. “Reckless and impressive actions like these demonstrate Beowulf’s courage and daring and make him appear more heroic” (Cory 1). Beowulf’s ability of risk taking makes him appear much more heroic to those around him. How others looked at him was very important on how his life would later turn out. “Early in the poem, Beowulf is young, brave and has no one to worry about but himself. Because of this he can risk everything in his quest for personal glory” (Stitt 1). Due to his youthful age, he is able to risk more than those who have built up their lives. Beowulf was just starting off in his life and by making risky situations, he was gambling on who he would be and how his future would play out. Beowulf’s bravery shows through him making spontaneous decisions and risking everything without …show more content…

Courage: Since my courage is strong, / I need not make a boasting speech against the war-flyer. (Heaney 2527-2528) Loyalty also shows to be a quality Beowulf has in common with an epic hero. In the beginning if the poem, Beowulf decides to help the Danes. He also helps rid off his father’s obligation by fighting a monster (Heaney 2518-2537). Along with his love and devotion in helping the Danes, Beowulf also shows loyalty to the crown and the process of secession. “When Hygelac dies, Beowulf does not hurry and seize the throne, but rather supports Denmark's rightful heir. With this gesture of loyalty and respect for the throne, Beowulf shows that he has been transformed” (Stitt 1). Beowulf does not act vain and take advantage of this opportunity brought his way. Instead, he shows appreciation for how Denmark should be the next king, and decides to help him achieve what was rightfully his. In the end, when Beowulf eventually becomes king, he acts for the good of his people. His last few actions demonstrate his devotion to his people and his kingdom. Beowulf’s death comes when he is fighting the dragon. During his ruling period, he learns that he needed to protect his people at all costs (Stitt

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