Essential Characteristics of an Epic Hero Beowulf embodies all of the characteristics of an epic hero. An epic hero possesses traits that help guide them to defeat evil and to become a leader in their society. These qualities come from the valued traits of a society. Beowulf displays the valued qualities within the Anglo-Saxon community that allow him to be a natural leader and a hero to his people. The types of physical and mental characteristics that shape an epic hero include strength, appearance, pride, and integrity. Additional qualities that create the ideal epic hero are fame, to be on a quest, and to have a tragic flaw.
Some of the most important physical characteristics of an epic hero are supernatural strength and appearance. One
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An example that verifies that Beowulf is the ideal epic hero is his fame. "Well, friend Unferth, you have had your say/ about Breca and me. But it was mostly beer/ that was doing the talking. The truth is this: / when the going was heavy in those high waves, / I was the strongest swimmer of all” (530-534). This quote shows that Beowulf is well known for his past accomplishments because Unferth brings them up within this passage. Also, Beowulf tells about his past deeds in the ocean and how good of a swimmer he is while he battles sea monsters in the quote shown. He gains glory and fame from his past endeavors. Throughout the poem, Beowulf is on a quest for fame and fortune. “Then news of Grendel, / hard to ignore, reached me at home: / sailors brought stories of the plight you suffer” (409-411). Beowulf informs Hrothgar that he set out on a quest because he hears about the monstrous Grendel. This demonstrates that he intentionally sets out on a quest for Grendel. Most epic heroes have a tragic flaw that leads them to their own death or failure. “In Beowulf, he is so strong, he is unable to wield any swords made of iron because they break. Likewise, his past successes make him believe that he is invincible” (Jones 27). At the final battle against the dragon, he underestimates the monster and dies because of his tragic flaw. Therefore fame, a quest, and a