The Definition Of A Hero In Beowulf By Homer

The definition of a hero differs throughout different societies, however, when juxtaposed, most ideas of a hero are similar in structure. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition of a hero is “ a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities” (Merriam-Webster). When picturing a hero, the ideal image most often conjured is that of a strong, burly man that possesses superhuman powers, all while wearing a cape and tight suit to save humanity from some source of evil. While the Anglo-Saxon warrior Beowulf does not clad himself in a cape and tights, he is the quintessential definition of a hero. Beowulf is an English poem written in 1000 A.D. that has significance comparable to that of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey

After fighting many strenuous battles, Beowulf becomes king and rules for fifty years. Then, a dragon, angry because his treasure was stolen, starts destroying the land even though Beowulf is an old man, he still decides to fight. “... Then, he said farewell to his followers,/ each in his turn, for the last time” (Beowulf 666-667). Beowulf is determined to save his people from the dragon, even if it means the death of him. This trait is important to the being of an epic hero because, to even be considered a hero, a character must have some sort of high morale to help society, even if that morale causes them to sacrifice their life, their freedom, or their morals. Beowulf fights because he knows he can save the people and gain glory, and also comply to his loyalty for the

For example, after Grendel is destroyed, his mother starts attacking. King Hrothgar explains the kingdom’s plight to Beowulf, and mentions only Beowulf is suited to take on the task of seeking out Grendel’s mother. “...He leaped into the lake; would not wait for anyone’s/ Answer; the heaving water covered him/ Over” (Beowulf 570-572). In short, Beowulf did not think twice about jumping into the lake to search for Grendel’s mother’s lair. He exhibited bravery by refusing to wait to make sure it was okay for him to go and jumping right into the opportunity to contend the