Preview

Beowulf: My Definition Of A Hero

Good Essays
Open Document
Open Document
743 Words
Grammar
Grammar
Plagiarism
Plagiarism
Writing
Writing
Score
Score
Beowulf: My Definition Of A Hero
What is a hero? Many people have different definitions of what a hero can be for example Beowulf. In the story Beowulf, Beowulf the hero is described as a great fighter and a man of tremendous strength. In my opinion a hero is not what the story describes a hero as. my definition of a hero is a good person who does something nice or saves somebody. A hero can also be someone you look up too. The Hollywood's definition of a hero is way different than my definition of a hero their definition of a hero is somebody who saves lives, has supernatural powers and are always protagonist in the stories. Some traits a hero has to make him a hero are they are nice, brave, have powers, caring and are patient. My definition and Hollywood's definition of …show more content…
The Norse heroic code kept people focused in rewards in their life. The heroic code values such attributes as strength, courage and honor. The heroic code was of great importance in warrior societies. In Beowulf, a hero had to be willing to face any odds, and fight to the death of their glory and people. In the story, Beowulf is a considered a hero. "They said that all the kings upon the earth he was the man most gracious and fair-minded, kindest to his people and keenest to win fame". This showed us that everybody considered him a hero because of how he defeated all the bad people. He is considered a hero because he has the following traits; courage, loyalty, faith and for his inhuman strengths. Beowulf shows courage because he never thought twice about fighting, he would kill those who came for him. An example is when he defeated Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon. Beowulf never thought about the fights he would just fight his hardest so he could defeat them. He was also considered a hero because of his loyalty. Beowulf was loyal to king Hrothgar, who once saved his father."He would sail …show more content…
Some parts of the definition of a hero in the Norse heroic code are still applicable today but some are not used at all anymore. I think some things said in the Norse heroic code are applicable today. One thing that is still applicable today is that a hero has to have the following traits to be considered a hero; courage, loyalty, faith, and strength. Another thing that is still applicable today is that good will eventually triumph over evil as said in the Norse heroic code. As you can see there are many different definitions of what a hero is. Some people think of a hero as someone with supernatural powers and other things of a hero as someone who saves lives, everybody has a different definition of what a hero

You May Also Find These Documents Helpful

  • Good Essays

    Throughout history, there have been an incalculable number of heroes; that can be through reality or fictitious. From viewing the clips from this assignments and reading various articles regarding heroism, there are multiple aspects that determine exactly what a hero should be. In regards to the Spiderman video, Aunt May explains that a hero is someone that is courageous, self-sacrificing, and sets examples for others. Likewise, an article I read describes a hero as someone who is courageous, selfless, humble, patient, and caring. In my opinion, a hero is an individual who cares more about the life of others than themselves; they would do anything in their power to protect others as well as the world around them.…

    • 423 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    The definition of hero varies among people but, in my definition of a Hero is a person who is able to achieve the difficult task regardless of the resistance of society or sacrificing themselves in risky situations. A hero is not a person who is easily scared, gives up easily and selfish. In my opinion, when people are described as “hero” we neglect their bad behaviors, but this doesn’t imply to every hero we should be aware of such things because we all have our own flaws.…

    • 672 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    Beowulf: A Hero

    • 188 Words
    • 1 Page

    According to Emerson's essay he considers Beowulf a hero because he fits all the qualities of the heroes. A hero has to be respected by others Beowulf was respected, when he was fighting Grendel, the Danes wanted to help him; "Many a noble of Beowulf brandished his battle sword old would guard the live of his lord and protector." They are applying that he is very high and mighty. Emerson also says a hero has to have a war-like attitude. Beowulf portrays this when it describes him. “The stout-hearted warrior snatched as he slumbered, seizing hand with-grip”. Emerson also said that a hero has to have fortitude. One sees that he has fortitude when it says; “The foe i must grapple, fight for my life then foeman with foeman.” Emerson said a hero…

    • 188 Words
    • 1 Page
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    Beowulf As A Hero Essay

    • 639 Words
    • 3 Pages

    In conclusion, Beowulf is considered a great warrior but not a true hero. Although he accomplished many heroic deeds he never did any of them for the right reasons. Therefore, Beowulf is not a true hero but only a warrior who values renown and rewards. Although he should signs that he cares about the people he never fought for the people but for himself to the very end. Ultimately we see that Beowulf has the characteristic of a hero but his values differ greatly from that of heroes. It can even we concluded that the values of the people who listen to Beowulf hundred of years ago differ from us…

    • 639 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Satisfactory Essays

    Woodrow Wilson As A Hero

    • 260 Words
    • 2 Pages

    The official definition for a hero is a person, typically a man who is admired or idealized for courage. Which I agree, a hero is someone who has tons of courage and can make anyone feel safe. I would say a trustworthy man/woman adds to the characteristics of a hero. A hero is also a protector of everyone around. A hero is basically an admired man or woman who tries everything in their power to do anything they can for someone.…

    • 260 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Satisfactory Essays
  • Good Essays

    Odysseus As A Hero

    • 388 Words
    • 2 Pages

    Hero? What makes someone a hero? Well, the definition of a hero is : a person, typically a man, who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.…

    • 388 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    Beowulf As A Hero

    • 365 Words
    • 2 Pages

    Upon you are items of great value to thy self. Thou shall treasure these items as they have helped thy create a legacy. These are items that helped me become known as a hero by all. Upon you is both Grendel's arm and head whom I defeated bare-handed. My fellow Hrothgar was in need as this monster destroyed the great hall of Herot. I lay awake, waiting for this gruesome monster to enter the hall. Grendel could not stand a chance as I had ripped his arm out of his socket. To show proof of my victory, Grendel's arm hung above on the wall of Herot. In honor of the great Beowulf, thy name was recognized as a hero by all in a song, shared by other ancient heroes. I hope thou keep it in a safe place, as it is indeed a treasure to me. Alone, I fought…

    • 365 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    An Anglo-Saxon hero is supposed to achieve individual glory. Beowulf searched for individual fame and glory his entire life. His pursuit to become a hero was so strong that it motivated him to take on the evils of the world. Through his encounters with evil he was able to achieve individual fame and thus fulfill the expectations of an Anglo-Saxon hero. Beowulf was also able to meet the expectations that faced a king during the Anglo-Saxon period. During his rule as king, Beowulf treated his people, the Geats, with immense an fairness and was very good to all of them.…

    • 459 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    Hero Definition Essay

    • 927 Words
    • 4 Pages

    The definition of a hero is a relatively simple one; a hero is someone who positively impacts others through their actions and accomplishments. While we all have different views on who exactly we see as a hero, there are certain individuals, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln, who have undeniably changed the world and fit this definition. I have found that many of the individuals who society, and I personally, view as great heroes, share a certain set of traits that almost definitely had a large part in their accomplishments. This is why I believe that bravery, selflessness, and determination are three vital traits when it comes to defining what it means to be a hero.…

    • 927 Words
    • 4 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    Beowulf An Epic Hero

    • 405 Words
    • 2 Pages

    The concept of heroes changes over time depending on the culture, the place, and the people. A hero can be defined as someone who fights supernaturals or a more modern version is a person who risks their life to save another. A hero’s place in society is someone who represents the peoples values and beliefs and they go above and beyond to protect what is important to others and Beowulf represents everything a hero is.…

    • 405 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    In the epic poem Beowulf, one learns about one of the first known great heroes. Although heroes don't always wear capes or bear superpowers, some people choose to think that these are the only heroes that exist. In truth, heroes are people who do extraordinary things, even in small measures. A hero can be defined as a person who does great deeds for another or that has admirable traits and abilities. In the time period of the story, heroes are usually great warriors. They receive honor, glory, respect, and fame for their heroic deeds. Modern heroes are similarly recognized, but are often ordinary citizens. They possess traits shared with Beowulf such as strength, self-sacrifice, and loyalty.…

    • 489 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    What Defines A Hero Essay

    • 600 Words
    • 3 Pages

    What defines a hero? Well there are many ways that a hero can be defined. A hero can be defined as a self sacrificer; they can be the friends at any cost, heroes are the first people to reach out a helping hand. Heroes are not defined as what many people think when they hear the word hero like super heroes for example super man; yes he is a hero but not a real life hero in the real world. Heroes function or operate in the real world by caring for others and not them self’s they are not considered selfish and they are risk takers. For example Fredrick Douglass, a former slave, wrote poetry, and wanted freedom for all slaves.…

    • 600 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Good Essays

    If the Shoe Fits

    • 367 Words
    • 2 Pages

    To me, a hero is a person that is a role model to others, is true to themselves, and is worthy of imitation. A hero is somebody who inspires others to be like them. It is not necessary for them to be perfect, because every human is flawed, but a great hero should take responsibility, learn from the experience, and move on. In fact, one of the qualities that makes a hero truly worth of admiration, is the ability to rise above and exhibit perseverance and strength.…

    • 367 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays
  • Satisfactory Essays

    What Is a Hero

    • 695 Words
    • 3 Pages

    The true definition of hero is a man of distinguished valor. Bravery, courage, intrepidity, boldness, daring, and prowess in war are a heroes characteristics. However a hero is understood to be different to everyone. To one person he may be the greatest being who ever lived, but to another he may just be a normal, average man. For example, a child who has lost his poor puppy may think of it’s rescuer as a savior. His hero could be none other than a mere gentlemen who saw the missing companion and returned it to the thankful boy.…

    • 695 Words
    • 3 Pages
    Satisfactory Essays
  • Good Essays

    What is a Hero?

    • 490 Words
    • 2 Pages

    That is the image of a hero is most of our minds if someone were to ask what a hero is. In reality, a real hero is so much more diverse from the usual cliché though he or she might appear to be strong, smart and good-looking. By definition, a hero is a person who is adored or glorified for doing something extremely brave, outstanding achievements or noble qualities. Therefore, a hero is brave, unselfish and altruistic.…

    • 490 Words
    • 2 Pages
    Good Essays