Characteristics Of An Epic Hero In Beowulf

Beowulf displays one of the most significant characteristics of an epic hero: the capability to complete deeds that require great strength and courage. In the beginning of the epic, the narrator introduces the Danes, a dynasty with Hrothgar as their king and leader. The Danes’ values and fortune during battle brings them great success and their dynasty prospers for many years, however, Grendel, a God-cursed, monstrous demon comes to terrorize them due to bitter feelings and envy. He harasses their mead-hall for over a decade until Beowulf decides to intervene. Beowulf, a noble member of the Geat Dynasty, hears of Grendel’s torment and gathers an army to sail across the sea. Beowulf and his army plan on defeating Grendel and relieving the Danes
He ordered a boat / that would ply the waves. He announced his plan: / to sail the swan’s road and search out that king, / the famous prince who needed defenders” (Heaney, page 15). Beowulf plans to gather an army of men and sail across the sea to help the Danes. No one tries to stop or dissuade him because they know he possesses the ability to win. Beowulf’s strength surpasses that of anyone else currently on the earth, which further proves he can compete in battle against monsters and demons that the average human would not survive against. It also displays Beowulf’s courage because if the ordinary citizen heard of Grendel’s menace and wrath, they certainly would not form an army and head across the sea to fight him; they would do everything they could to keep themselves safe and stay out of Grendel’s way. Additionally, after Beowulf strategically defeats Grendel during their confrontation, Grendel’s infuriated mother attacks next, trying to avenge the death of her son. When Beowulf and his army reach the lake she inhabits, they immediately notice how nasty and terrifying the lake looks. A maze of tree roots and shrubbery covers the surface of the lake and men have yet to touch the