Comparing The Hero In Beowulf And Campbell's Monomyth

Joseph Campbell defines a hero as “someone who has given his life to something bigger than himself.” In the epic poem, Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney and the novel Harry Potter and the Source’s Stone, by J.K. Rowling, both follow The 17 Stages of Joseph Campbell’s Monomyth. Beowulf and Harry Potter prove they are heroes and fit into Campbell’s pattern because of their bravery, perseverance and courage throughout each story. In Beowulf, the main character Beowulf, demonstrates courage throughout the poem and Campbell’s Monomyth helps prove his heroic journey. Beowulf says, ‘“And so, my request, O king of Bright-Danes, dear prince of the Shieldings, friend of the people and their ring of defense, my one request is that you won’t refuse

Throughout the novel, Harry shows his courage and bravery proving the idea of him being a hero. “Harry wished he had about eight more eyes. He turned his head in every direction as they walked up the street, trying t look at everything at once: the shops, the things outside them, the people doing their shopping” (71). This quote shows the third stage of Supernatural Aid. When Hagrid came to get Harry, he didn’t believe that he was really a wizard. Hagrid had to explain to him his past and when Harry learned everything he accepted it and was brave enough to go with Hagrid and begin his journey to the wizard world. This also demonstrated the theme of the supernatural. Diagon Alley shows an opening into the wizard world. He got his wand and all his other objects he needed to fully begin his journey. “Harry then did something that was both very brave and very stupid: He took a great running jump and managed to fasten his arms around the toll’s neck from behind” (176). This shows the sixth stage, Road of trials. Harry and Ron knew Hermione was still in the girl’s bathroom when the troll escaped and they wanted to save her. Harry courageous act of defending Hermione helped save them all from the troll. “‘If I can get to the Stone, well, Ill have to go back to the Dursleys and wait for Voldemort to find me there, it’s only dying a bit later than I would have, because I’m never going over to the Dark Side! I’m going through the trapdoor tonight and nothing you two say is going to stop me!”’ (270). This quote shows the thirteenth stage called Magic Flight, Harry’s fight against Quirrell and Voldemort. Harry knows it is his responsibility and duty to stand up for himself and to protect the stone. His courage and bravery is proved here. He will not give up without a fight. This quote also shows the external conflict fought between Harry and