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   kplhardison Student
   Graduate School

   eNotes Editor

   Beowulf's three greatest characteristics are humanitarian, spiritual and personal. First, in regard to the humanitarian, he is able to understand and sympathize with the emotions, feelings, thoughts and needs of other people. This sets him apart from others who either don't have the intellect, will or heart to have compassion, discernment and generosity toward others.

   Second, in regard to the spiritual, Beowulf thinks of the afterlife and gives thanks to God for the gifts and privileges given him. Further he deports himself in a way that puts spirituality first by valuing other people's lives ahead of his own, even when that means he may lose his life.

   Third, in regard to the personal, Beowulf is not only courageous, he is loyal, steadfast and committed to upholding the integrity and honor of his society and the warrior's code of gift giving and receiving, which is a code that fosters unity. In addition, Beowulf is intelligent and an able orator.

   For confirmation see: (23 - 35) and (1759 - 1762).

   ...when fighting starts
   steadfast companions will stand by him
   and hold the line. Behaviour that’s admired
   is the path to power among people everywhere. (23-25)
   
   Choose, dear Beowulf, the better part,
   eternal rewards. Do not give way to pride.
   For a brief while your strength is in bloom
   but it fades quickly;... 1759 - 1762
   

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/beowulf/

   http://www.enotes.com/beowulf/characters

   http://www.enotes.com/beowulf/summary

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   Posted by kplhardison on Friday October 30, 2009 at 12:54 PM