Beowulf: An Example Of An Epic Hero

Beowulf was composed around the 9th century and shared by oral tradition until it was written down during the 11th century. It is one of the oldest extant poems in the English language and contains many aspects of Anglo-Saxon culture. The titular character, Beowulf, typical of both Anglo-Saxon protagonists and epic heroes. He possesses traits that were venerated by the Anglo-Saxon tribes as well as traits commonly found in epics worldwide. Many people find Beowulf to be an exemplary example of an epic hero, and authors have based protagonists on him for centuries. Foremost of Beowulf’s epic traits is his determination. Even when faced with indomitable odds, he is still adamant that he will prevail. When Unferth expresses his doubt in Beowulf’s ability to defeat Grendel, stating the monster’s strength, Beowulf counters with, “He knows he can trample you Danes to his heart’s content, humiliate and murder without fear of reprisal. But he will find me different. I will show him how Geats shape to kill in the heat of battle.” (Heaney, 41, par. 600.) Some may take Beowulf’s words as arrogance or bravado, but it showcases his determination to defeat Grendel.

The Anglo-Saxons revered the concept of faith, which they called wyrd, heavily. Predestination is featured prominently in epics from other cultures as well. When Beowulf announces his plan to defeat Grendel, “…they inspected the omens and spurred his ambition to go…” (Heaney, 15, par. 200.) The elders looked for signs that he would be successful, and found that he was. It was obvious that no one but Beowulf would be able to slay the monster that tormented the Danes. This is also supported when he engages in battle with Grendel as when his men join the fight, they cannot harm him. The beast is impervious to blades, but not to Beowulf’s