The poem, Beowulf, illustrates an epic hero who defeats many beasts and overcomes intricate obstacles. The battle’s that he experiences are different from each other, although they also have very similar aspects. In addition, they respectively symbolize an important lesson to Beowulf and the reader. By comparing and contrasting each fight, one will be able to have a better understanding of the overall theme of the poem and have a deeper appreciation for the gallant warrior. The strong and powerful Beowulf defeats two extremely murderous demons in very different ways before he sadly meets his end with a third monster. It is important to first note that Beowulf embodies the epic hero traits, which are: “looking like a hero, being noble, famous, …show more content…
Furthermore, it is also pointed out that, “Beowulf was granted the glory of winning; Grendel was driven / under the fen-banks, fatally hurt, / to his desolate lair” (817-820). Adding to this, a crucial piece of information involves Grendel’s actions when he goes to the mead-hall and encounters Beowulf. Although Beowulf’s mission involves murdering Grendel, he does not need to go on a journey to his lair to find him – he only needs to travel so far as to Denmark. One notable thing to also mention about this battle includes what it symbolizes; the collision of good and evil. Grendel represents a horrifying demon, incapable of joy, while Beowulf embodies an almost godly epic hero. This is proven in the …show more content…
The feud starts when a dragon becomes awakened from guarding a horde of gold. He begins to burn everything in sight, which includes the land that Beowulf now rules; therefore, Beowulf pledges to murder the dragon. The action portrays the dragon breathing fire multiple times towards Beowulf to hurt him, before Wiglaf, the only warrior brave enough to help his King, stands by Beowulf and attacks the dragon with his sword. Sadly, he is too late, as the dragon delivers a deadly, venomous bite to Beowulf’s neck. Then, Beowulf gathers up enough strength to inflict a deadly stab to the dragon’s stomach. The text dictates: “They had killed the enemy, courage quelled his life; / that pair of kinsmen, partners in nobility, / had destroyed the foe. So every man should act, / be at hand when needed; but now, for the king, / this would be the last of many labors / and triumphs in the world” (2706-2711). With this statement in mind, it is indisputable that the symbolization of this onslaught consists of how no one can ever gain immortality; even the finest people must meet their end. To reemphasize, it is clear to see that Beowulf’s last and final dispute holds the utmost preponderance due to the fact that the dragon is able to kill him at