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Why Is Beowulf So Powerful

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Why Is Beowulf So Powerful
Beowulf Essay The Anglo-Saxon period was a dark time filled with countless violence and war. Many people during the time longed for heroes and legendary warriors. A hero was comprised of many traits such as; superhuman strength, a great love of battle, and an intense desire for glory.
Beowulf was a man of mighty power. This is shown when the book states, “In his far off home Beowulf, Higlac’s / Follower and the strongest of the Geats -- greater / And stronger than anyone or anywhere in this world…”(109-111). Beowulf also shows great strength when he rips Grendel’s arm off. “The monster’s hatred rose higher, / But his power had gone. He twisted in pain, / And the bleeding sinews deep in his shoulder / Snapped, muscle and bone split / And Broke…”(388-392).
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This is shown when Beowulf hears stories of the famous monster that terrorizes the Danes, and he commands a boat be fitted out with a select few of soldiers to go and slay the demon. “...Quickly commanded a boat fitted out, / Proclaiming he’d go to that famous king, / ...Now when help was needed…”(113-114, 116). His love of battle is really displayed when his men sleep and he’s too excited for the fight that’s about to come. “That night Beowulf and his men stay inside Herot. While his men sleep Beowulf lies awake, eager to meet with Grendel.” (editor’s note pg. 48). Beowulf’s love of battle truly comes to light when he fights the dragon. “...roared out a battle cry, / A call so loud and clear that it reached through / The hoary rock, hung in the dragon’s / …show more content…
He was not going to leave this earth without leaving his mark on it, for every man and woman to know the name Beowulf. This is shown when Grendel's mother can’t be harmed by a mans sword and bites a hole in his helmet leaving it useless. “...But Beowulf / Longed only for fame, leaped back / Into battle. He tossed his sword aside…”(502-504). Another instant his desire for glory shows is in The Last Battle when he utters a boast. “But I will fight again, seek fame still / If the dragon hiding in his tower dares / To face me…”(626-628). Beowulf’s final words give an example of just how much he wants people to remember his name. “Have / The brave Geats build me a tomb… / ...On this spit of land so sailors can see / This tower, and remember my name…”(823-824 and 827-828). Beowulf was an excellent example of a hero. He fought and won many battles; battles that weren't even his to fight, he displayed great strength; more so than any average man, and he didn't leave this world without leaving his mark on it. Beowulf will be forever remembered as a

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