Beowulf
Beowulf is a story of a hero who seems to defy false hope. A hero is a person of distinguished courage who has admirable qualities/abilities, which are exemplified through their acts. Beowulf illustrates the idea that humans can exceed the norm and combat with human evil and fears. There are three virtues that Beowulf personified: loyalty, courage and faith.
Loyalty was one of the most important qualities a man could have in Beowulf's time period. Loyalty was displayed in Beowulf's character quite clearly, starting with his decision to help the Danes. He was willing to put his own life on the line for the sole benefit of others. This loyalty was first shown when Beowulf went with his men to fight a monster so he could help his father repay his debt. Beowulf’s father Ecgtheow had started a rivalry. The king Hrothgar helped stop the feud, “Ecgtheow acknowledged me with oaths of allegiance.”(470) Loyalty is exhibited when Beowulf returns to Geatland and Queen Hygd offers the throne to Beowulf. The Queen
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believed that her son was not fit to rule the kingdom. However, Beowulf refuses the offer and serves his king with faith and loyalty. He expresses his loyalty yet again to the royal
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The demonstration of courage begins with the slaying of Grendel without the use armor. Beowulf shows his skills and courage, which is what is thought to be found in a hero. The decision behind the use of no armor is because Beowulf felt that there should be no advantage over Grendel. After the slaying of Grendel, Beowulf reassures the people that he really is courageous and skillful. Beowulf depicts his courageousness by stating; "I count myself weaker in war or grapple of battle than Grendel himself. Therefore I scorn to slay him with sword, Deal deadly wound, as I well might do nothing he knows of a noble fighting, Of thrusting and hewing and hacking of