How Beowulf Is A Hero

In most stories there is almost always a hero and in the epic poem “Beowulf”, it’s Beowulf, he’s so heroic the whole story is named after him! The long, narrative poem was written by an unknown author during the Anglo-Saxon period ranging from 449 to 1066. The story describes the deed of the hero Beowulf who possesses supernatural qualities which he eventually uses to defeat his nemesis, Grendel. In order to qualify as a hero, there are certain characteristics a character must obtain, these include bravery, strength and the ability to handle a dispute personally.

Analysing the poem “Beowulf” we know that Beowulf’s nemesis, Grendel is a demonic creature who hates the sounds of celebrating and singing that come from the mead hall (Heorot) in Denmark. After the Danes suffer 12 years of fear and devastation under the wrath of Grendel, young Beowulf from Geatland (modern day Sweden) hears of this injustice and decides to sail to Denmark in pursuit of defeating Grendel. This brings me to the first quality that a hero in any story should have: courage. “In his time, he was the mightiest man on Earth the bravest warrior his generation had ever seen”. Embarking on the journey shows one of the qualities that makes Beowulf a great warrior along with his admirable code of loyalty.
On his arrival, a feast is held in the mead hall for Beowulf, and the men celebrate his honour. As Grendel arrives, Beowulf doesn’t insists that he will fight unarmed because he claims it won’t be a fair fight if otherwise. “He desperately wanted the safety of his lair, the evil den, for he had never in his life felt controlled or trapped by anyone before”. This proves that Beowulf’s own superhuman hands were stronger than the demon which eventually terrified him and saved the people of