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Beowulf's Heroic Code Essay

1294 Words6 Pages

In Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney, the Heroic Code is proven most prominent to determine how the characters act. The heroic code, qualities and behaviors mostly are attributed to Beowulf, consists of a multitude of different traits, but revenge, glory, and endurance control the actions of the characters the most. Glory is linked to the idea of the actions of someone being so great and courageous that that person becomes immortalized in the minds of the people in his or her life. “So now, Beowulf, I adopt you in my heart as a dear son. Nourish and maintain this new connection, you noblest of men … you have made yourself immortal in by your glorious actions” (945-948, 953-954). Hrothgar acknowledges Beowulf for his great exploits of significant strength and bravery by killing Grendel. Hrothgar’s including of “immortal” is very important to …show more content…

Hrothgar now, king of the Geats, recognizes Beowulf as being immortalized by his actions. By a king acknowledging Beowulf, it validates the statement of remembrance even more. Glory is also identified as the acknowledgement or praise one receives after his or her feats of valor. “Take your place, then, with pride and pleasure and move to the feast. To-morrow morning our treasure will be shared and showered upon you” (1782-1784). After great accomplishments, the rewards and praise received is similar to the measurement of how much people recognize what someone has done. In this case, Beowulf returns from his quest of defeating Grendel’s mother, after defeating Grendel. Because of these acts Beowulf is showered with commendation and becomes etched into the hearts of the citizens for ridding them of a great danger. Beowulf’s funeral also displays the effect he had on the people around

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