Why Is Beowulf An Ideal Hero

A powerful work of literature can offer diametrically opposed perspectives, which in turn provokes a plethora of reviews, literary criticism, and even doctoral dissertations aimed to explain a certain literary dilemma. Much like the contention over the real monster in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the quest for discerning the underlying meaning of true heroism in Beowulf evokes the essential question: does Beowulf embody the elements of an ideal hero: selflessness, peace, and wisdom? The ambiguity of the epic partitions readers into two groups: those who believe Beowulf was heroic through his many sacrifices and those who contend that Beowulf did not have the qualities or demeanor to be considered a real hero. His conceited nature, interactions with Hrothgar, tendency to be violent, and his final sacrifice which jeopardized his fellow Geats, thoroughly explored by literary critics, suggest that the latter is true and Beowulf lacks the basic traits necessary to be considered a hero by Anglo-Saxon and modern standards. In Anglo-Saxon culture, humility is valued as a heroic trait, but Beowulf’s actions do not reflect this characteristic, and he is rather conceited. Prior to fighting Grendel himself,

It came to Beowulf’s attention that there was a dragon guarding ancient treasure. Unfortunately, his transition from a young warrior to an old king has taken a toll on his intellect and rationale. Having fought his last monster fifty years ago, Beowulf was overconfident about his abilities to fight a dragon that did not fight him unprovoked. Essentially, he put the safety of his kingdom in jeopardy for ancient treasure; a decision lacking in rationale. Nonetheless, it was prophesied that they would need to bid adieu “to all you know and love/ on your home ground, the open-handedness,/ the giving of war-swords” (Beowulf 2884-86), and further evokes