Beowulf, A True Epic Hero

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Beowulf, a True Epic Hero
Beowulf is an epic poem set in 500 A.D. Over the centuries the poem has been passed on by word of mouth, and later written in Old English. Beowulf, the main character, shines over other characters in the poem. Exemplifying the characteristics of a perfect hero, Beowulf battles the dreadful Grendal, Grendel’s enraged mother, and the fire breathing dragon. Encountering various problems throughout the poem, Beowulf stays mighty. Beowulf epitomizes an epic hero showing bravery, loyalty and pride.
Throughout the poem, Beowulf shows what bravery stands for. Although he gets caught in numerous problems, he stays fearless. Beowulf very seldom uses weapons to overthrow his enemies. He uses his bare hands and his masculine ways.
Beowulf states:
I’d use no sword, no weapon, if the beast could
Be killed without it, crushed to death like Grendal,
Gripped in my hands and torn Limb from limb.
But his breath will be burning hot, poison will pour
From his tongue. I feel no shame, with shield and sword
And armor, against the monster: when he comes to me
I mean to stand, not run from his shooting flames,
Stand till fate decides which of us wins. (630-639)
Even in Beowulf’s old age he was still ready to take action and battle the fire-breathing dragon. He won’t back down from the dragon, even if it he is winning the battle. His bravery shines through in doing this.
Not only is Beowulf brave, but he is extremely loyal too. Loyalty is being devoted to a motive, ideal, or regimen. Beowulf shows loyalty by being devoted to his fellow geats, and being loyal to himself. When he starts something, he never gives up. The loyal Beowulf never lets his people down. Nothing stands in Beowulf’s way, despite his age.
Beowulf uttered in his final boast:
I’ve never known fear, as a youth
I fought in endless battles.
I am old now, But I will fight again, seek fame s...