During the time period Beowulf was written the idea of myths and archetypes were found in almost every piece of literature. There are many types of archetypes that can be found within Beowulf, but the two major archetypes presented are the hero and the outcast. Heroes were often seen as a figure larger than life, one who is in search of self-identity, and often seen to have god on their side. An outcast is a character that is separated from society because of a physical impairment, their actions, or the actions of their ancestors. However, Beowulf is unique because there are characters within the poem that blend from one archetype to another causing the character to constantly change their actions within the poem. Throughout Beowulf, readers are introduced to many different heroes that have done a wide variety of heroic actions that have allowed them to earn the title of a hero. In order to be known as a hero in Anglo Saxon …show more content…
Shield Sheafson was once an orphan, but by the end of his life he was the founder of the Danes and their leader. Shield Sheafson is known as a hero because of his brave actions in battle and the strength he showed while leading his people. Another hero the reader is introduced to in poem is Sigemund. Sigemund is famous for the legend of killing a dragon that was attacking and killing his people. This legend of a dragon being slayed foreshadows a fight that takes place later in the story between Beowulf and a dragon attacking his own kingdom. Additionally, the reader is introduced to Wiglaf who is one of Beowulf’s most trusted men and is with Beowulf when he takes his last breath. Wiglaf can be identified as hero in the poem, because he was the only warrior to help Beowulf fight and defeat the dragon that was destroying their kingdom. The main hero in the poem is Beowulf and he is known throughout many kingdoms for his heroic battle with Grendel and his