There are three elements that have great meaning in the life of any epic hero: the call (the initial stage), the challenges (a part of any hero’s fate), and redemption. Such elements are seen in the careers of epic heroes such as Hercules. Beowulf is slightly different as he has never had any horrible event in his life that would cause the necessity for redemption. He has a long and prosperous career: helping Hrothgar against Grendel and his mother, ruling over the Geats for fifty years wisely.
To think of it, the least wise thing he has ever done in his life was becoming involved in the fight with the dragon thus leaving the fate of his kingdom in the unknown, having deprived it of a wise ruler who made everything work for the past half a century. The calling is fulfilled when he hears of Hrothgar’s trouble. The challenges are naturally the two fights with the monsters: something he does incredible well in the manner exceeding expectations.
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"Beowulf Epic Hero Essay".
Beowulf possesses three primary values: strength, courage, and wisdom. All three qualities were valued by Anglo-Saxons with strength being the most important and the ultimate weapon of Beowulf. His wisdom is very much specific in nature: “do not grieve. It is always better to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning.” (1384-1389) This approach is typical for a hero, who is confident in his physical powers. Courage is always apparent in his nature.
From preparation to battle – “Beowulf got ready…. indifferent to death” (1442-1452) to facing the dragon as an old man, but still confident in his ability to win. The best proof of his strength can be found in the episode of the battle with Grendel. He meets the enemy without armor and weaponry insisting that such way is the most accurate. His enemy does not have armor and additional weaponry, such should be his conditions as well. He meets the enemy without clothes or any other items of human origin safe for his body and deals the enemy a crushing defeat.
