Beowulf

Beowulf is described as a perfect hero who fought for his people and vanquished evil with his extraordinary abilities to bring peace and justice. He was wise, noble, and brave and was a true hero among the people of Scandinavia. He was known everywhere because of his courage and bravery. His life was not only an external battle against monsters and demons but also an internal battle against pride, greed, betrayal, cowardice, and self-concern.




    Beowulf was neither a coward nor greedy. He was brave enough to fight Grendel, his mother, and the fire dragon. King Hrothgar rewarded him for his deeds and gave him gifts and weapons. The gifts Beowulf received were given to him as a reward to kill the evil monsters. He never asked for them: “Then Halfdane’s son presented Beowulf / with a gold standard as a victory gift!” (1019-20). In the Anglo-Saxon period, it was a custom to reward a person for his heroic deeds: “Thus the king acted with his due custom / I was paid and recompensed completely!” (2144-45)




    Beowulf was honest and kind man. He always shared the things he had. He presented his treasure to King Hygelac when he returned to his country: “These, King Hygelac, I am happy to present / to you as gifts!” (2148-49). After the death of King Hygelac and Heardred, Beowulf became king and he ruled his kingdom very wisely and efficiently: “the wide kingdom / reverted to Beowulf. He ruled it well / for fifty winters, grew old and wise!” (2207½-2209). Because he had an ability to put his people’s welfare before his own, his people respected and liked him. They knew he was the most gracious king in the world: “They said that of all the kings upon the earth / he was the most gracious and fair-minded / kindest to his people and keenest to win fame!” (3180-82)




    Beowulf was never afraid to die: “Life doesn’t cost him a thought!” (1536). He could have stayed in his country but instead he decided to help King Hrothgar and his...