Beowulf was a much more successful epic hero, who obtained and managed his position more respectably than Macbeth did, thus remembered accordingly because his reputation followed him beyond the grave. Different motives led them through different journeys, still similar climbs. They rose, they ruled, and they fell. In these epic pieces of British literature, Macbeth steps into the spotlight as a tragic hero and Beowulf as an epic hero. A tragic hero, Macbeth ultimately falls because of a poor judgement, and false interpretation. On the other hand, Beowulf, an epic hero, is greatly admired for his achievements. Macbeth falls to ambition and deception throughout the play fulfilling his role as a tragic hero, and Beowulf continues to push himself fearlessly, solidifying his part as the epic hero. Hero’s are not born, they are made, thus both Macbeth and Beowulf needed a beginning. …show more content…
Beowulf, a famous warrior of the Geats, is the perfect solution. The Danes have been terrorized by a monster for years and now the stage is set perfectly for Beowulf to win over the hearts of the Danes alike. To compare, Macbeth begins his climb to the throne from a similar starting point as Beowulf. At the beginning of the play Macbeth has won recognition for his bravery in battle and his defeat of the King of Norway, making him brave and fearless. (Burch) Macbeth comes about to meeting three witches who prophesied to him that he would be named Thane of Cawdor and King. At this point, both Beowulf and Macbeth are pointed towards the top. They are in the favor of the people and are looked up to with the highest regard. This is the beginning of the journey to their