Examples Of A Hero's Journey In Beowulf

Hero’s Journey All heroes are the same. Joseph Campbell, an American scholar, concluded that all heroes follow the same pattern called “The Hero’s Journey.” Beowulf is no exception to this pattern. Every hero has a different ordinary world. Beowulf hears about the monster from the scops in Geatland, which is his ordinary world. “In his far-off home Beowulf, Higlac’s follower and the strongest of the Geats- greater and stronger than anyone anywhere in this world- heard how Grendel filled nights with horror…” (109-112) Beowulf is called to the adventure, and “quickly commanded a boat fitted out..” (113) Beowulf is called to go, and he doesn’t refuse it, though many times heroes do before accepting. Crossing the threshold is a big step for the hero. Beowulf and his fourteen men “would sail across the sea, to Hrothgar, now when help was needed.” (115) They cross the sea, which is the threshold. They get to the other side, Beowulf meets the mentor, Hrothgar. Beowulf asks for permission to hunt Grendel, and the king “… gave places to the Geats, yielded benches to the brave visitors.” (190-191)
Beowulf is tested by Unferth when he is in the mead hall, but other than Grendel and him everyone there is his friend. Grendel is he enemy; he “…haunted the moors, the wild marshes, and made his home in hell…” (17-18) The hero and the allies get ready for the first challenge, the approach. Beowulf and the people are attacked by Grendel, and they fight to the death of Grendel. Just when they think they’re done, they meet a new obstacle, the ordeal. Grendel’s mom is now the big challenge that he will face. This life threatening fight brings him back on top and “Then old and young rejoiced…”