Honor In Beowulf

Horace’s The Odes introduces the poetic phrase Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori, which is a simplified explanation of a term widely used throughout literature and the world: honor. The sentence translates to “It is sweet and glorious to die for one’s country.” In literature, the phrase symbolizes a variety of heroic characteristics including courage, bravery, strength, and sacrifice. Furthermore, the era in which Horace gained his influence is known for its sacrificial soldiers who died in battle protecting their empire. However, honor has since taken a different connotation: rather than admiring one’s country, one now sacrifices for his or her own gain. In fact, people of the early twentieth century witnessed a near-disappearance of honor,

Beowulf, the eponymous epic telling the tale of a heroic warrior, embodies the philosophy of honor. Beowulf battles three separate enemies, each more formidable than the last. However, the protagonist, known as “the Geatish hero,” ensures that during his fight, there will be “no weapons, therefore, / for either this night” (683-684). Consistent with the morals of the time period, Beowulf intends to battle Grendel without armor or weapons, thus adhering to his honorable persona. Moreover, Beowulf maintains his obstinate confidence even as his challengers grow in strength and size; he conveys his honor by battling as if he is not challenged. Ultimately, Beowulf’s pride outgrows his honor, which leads to his imminent downfall as he fights the dragon. Similarly, in Homer’s The Iliad, Greek warriors present their honor as they besiege the citadel of Troy. In the Homeric era, honor was achieved through courage in battle, compelling speechmaking, displays of loyalty, and other noble qualities. For example, Odysseus, a revered warrior, exclaims that yet always it is disgraceful to wait long and at the end go home empty-handed.” (Book Two, Lines 284-298). Odysseus seeks to fulfill the military desires of the Greek warriors who accompany him in combat; he displays how honor for his people is the most important quality of a leader. Hence, both Beowulf and Odysseus act in accordance with the principles of “dulce et decorum est pro patria mori:” a lifestyle of sacrifice and patriotism.(Achilles acts on his own- doesn't show honor for his