Beowulf Vs Captain America

eroes, for several years, have been created using similar and contrasting qualities. In the story of Beowulf, Beowulf is perceived as a hero greater than mankind. The physical and mental qualities of Beowulf have been repeated through superheroes, like Captain America. Captain America is a modern day superhero who can be compared to the story of Beowulf. Both of the heroes fit characteristics, as well as contrast, the qualities of Archetypal readings.Though both heroes and their stories are very similar, they also have contrasting characteristics.
The stories of Captain America and Beowulf have similar values that make them both fit into the Archetypal category. Archetypal readings include a “hero” figure who is larger than life itself, and
Beowulf is known for fighting large beasts and protecting the land of the Geats. Captain America, however is known for his strength and his motivation to fight for the country during war. So when both heroes encounter foreign people, they are already known to have great back stories, hence the reason why they’re accepted so quickly and easily when making alliances with people. When Beowulf and his troops arrive in Heorot they are, very quickly, allowed to pass through the gates. Likewise, Captain America is put to tasks by the government, because they trust him. Both Heroes are trusted by their peers, and have no reason to be rejected in
Though Captain America has enemies and beasts to fight, none of them are completely outcasted in the society. Grendel, in Beowulf has been shunned from the people of Heorot. This shows characteristics of an Archetypal reading. Whereas, the beasts in Captain America do not show qualities that fit the “outcast” of Archetypal readings. Another diversity both stories share with archetypal readings is the “God” or higher power influence. In Beowulf, there is obvious significance in the God they speak of. In the beginning of Beowulf’s arrival in Heorot, he tells Hrothgar, “Whichever one death fells must deem it a judgement by God.” (ln 440). Beowulf leaves the outcome of the fight up to God, meaning he trusts God with his life and his decision. Though, in an Archetypal reading the influence is usually a feminine inspiration, rather than male. But both Captain America and Beowulf are similar in the way they contradict the typical Archetypal reading, and different in the specific influences they have. Captain America’s influence is more objective than human. His influence is from the idea of protecting his country, and pleasing the president with his accomplishments. Rather than looking up to a God, he looks up to the President and relies on the President’s orders not the fate of God. So, both heroes contrast the Archetypal reading theory, as well as contrast each