Discussion Topic
Identifying epic characteristics in a passage from Beowulf
Summary:
The passage from Beowulf exemplifies epic characteristics through its grandiose language, heroic actions of the protagonist, and the depiction of a significant battle or quest. Additionally, it often includes supernatural elements, a reflection of the values and culture of the time, and a focus on themes such as bravery, honor, and the struggle between good and evil.
Which aspect of an epic is evident in this passage from Beowulf?
Then he saw, hanging on the wall, a heavy
Sword, hammered by giants, strong
And blessed with their magic, the best of all weapons
But so massive that no ordinary man could lift
Its carved and decorated length. He drew it
From its scabbard, broke the chain on its hilt . . . .
The following passage from the Old English poem Beowulf is typical of epic writing in a number of ways:
Then he saw, hanging on the wall, a heavy
Sword, hammered by giants, strong
And blessed with their magic, the best of all weapons
But so massive that no ordinary man could lift
Its carved and decorated length. He drew it
From its scabbard, broke the chain on its hilt . . . .
Common epic elements in this passage include the following:
- The hero prepares for mortal combat.
- The hero has unusual or even superhuman strength.
- The hero knows how to handle weapons well.
However, perhaps the most important aspect of this passage that links it with the traits of epic poetry is its emphasis on the way the plot of the poem is here complicated by superhuman beings or events. The focus of this very brief passage in on...
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the fact that the sword has been
. . . hammered by giants, strong
And blessed with their magic . . . .
The passage does not describe Beowulf actually performing a superhuman indeed; instead, he simply prepares to perform one. His behavior in this small, single passage affects no one besides himself. The main emphasis of this very brief selection from the poem, then, is on the magic of the giants.