Themes: Epic Heroism
As an epic poem, Beowulf depicts the adventures and conquests of an epic hero, Beowulf. While the titular protagonist demonstrates many typical characteristics that we associate with heroes, such as his physical strength and his courage, as an epic hero, Beowulf embodies those traits to the extreme. His physical power is superhuman, as seen in episodes where he dives into Grendel’s mother’s cursed lake and remains underwater for “the best part of a day” (line 1495), wields a sword from the age of giants, or decapitates Grendel single-handedly, though it takes several of his men to carry the head back to Heorot. Beowulf is repeatedly described as one of a kind and as better than other men.
The hero repeatedly boasts of his skills, ancestry, and accomplishments. For example, he delivers a heroic resume when he arrives in Denmark to fight Grendel. He lists his “awesome strength” and his “resolve” as key qualities in his favor before he brags of “great triumphs” such as being covered “in the blood of enemies” and defeating “five beasts” (409, 416, 418-420). Beowulf impresses by insisting on fighting Grendel, an enormous evil monster that has terrorized the kingdom for twelve years and savaged hundreds of Denmark’s finest warriors, with his bare hands. Though he claims to leave the battle up to fate and to God, Beowulf is confident that Grendel has never faced an enemy quite like him.
It is not just his boasts that earn Beowulf heroic status, though; he, of course, defeats three supernatural beasts in the course of the epic. In addition to tearing Grendel’s arm from its socket and hanging the limb as a trophy in Heorot, Beowulf goes to Grendel’s mother’s sea cave and defeats her by using a blade “so huge and heavy of itself / only Beowulf could wield it in a battle” (1561-1562). The sword’s heft and Beowulf’s ability to strike “a resolute blow” with this massive weapon is further evidence of his immense physical strength. Finally, Beowulf rules his kingdom for fifty peaceful years, while neighboring kingdoms fear his power and authority too much to dare an attack or feud. He proves his epic bravery when he volunteers to fight the dragon alone to protect his community, despite his age and apparent decades-long retirement from conflict. Even his death is epic, with Beowulf’s pyre receiving “the hugest of all / funeral fires” (3143-3144) as his people “extolled his heroic nature and exploits” and build him a memorial that “sailors could see from far away” (3173, 3158). Beowulf is remembered as a just and honorable ruler, a brave and accomplished warrior, and a peerless protector of his people, solidifying his reputation as an epic hero.
Expert Q&A
How did the Geats honor Beowulf after his death?
The Geats honor Beowulf after his death by having a great funeral for him. They also build a tower in his honor. Twelve Geat warriors then ride around it on horseback, telling of his exploits to celebrate his life. An important way Beowulf is honored is by keeping his memory alive.
Why does the story focus on Beowulf as a hero rather than a king?
The story focuses on Beowulf as a hero rather than a king because epic tales emphasize heroic deeds over royal duties. Beowulf's heroism is highlighted through his battles with monsters like Grendel and his mother, which occur before he becomes king. The poem aims to celebrate his valor and supernatural strength rather than mundane kingly tasks. Additionally, depicting Beowulf's reign might either be dull or portray him as a perpetually troubled king, detracting from his legendary hero status.
What was the purpose of Beowulf for the Anglo-Saxon people?
The purpose of "Beowulf" for the Anglo-Saxon people was likely multifaceted. It served as a means to promote Christian values during a time of religious transition from paganism to Christianity, possibly influenced by the monks who transcribed it. Additionally, the epic elevated idealized Anglo-Saxon traits, encouraging listeners to emulate these virtues. Like other mythological tales, "Beowulf" aimed to convey moral lessons and cultural ideals, providing insight into societal values and beliefs.
Why did Beowulf fight the dragon?
Beowulf fights the dragon because, as king, he feels that it is his responsibility to protect his people. Although he doesn't need to take on the dragon himself, he does so out of a sense of duty. Beowulf is also motivated by a desire for glory.
Is "Beowulf" an epic? What social order produces such poetry and what values does it promote?
"Beowulf" is an epic poem, a long narrative form originating in oral traditions to preserve cultural heritage. Such poetry arises from societies valuing oral performance over written forms. "Beowulf" reflects Old English society, promoting virtues like loyalty, bravery, and moral duty, blending heroic and Christian values. It emphasizes kinship, alliances, and fame, while highlighting tensions between pagan boasting and Christian humility.
Can you provide an example of fortitude and wisdom in Beowulf?
In Beowulf, fortitude and wisdom are exemplified when Beowulf chooses to fight Grendel bare-handed, recognizing that weapons are ineffective due to Grendel's protective spell. This decision showcases his wisdom. His fortitude is displayed in the fierce battle where he grips Grendel so tightly that the monster must leave his arm behind to escape. Beowulf continues to demonstrate these traits throughout the epic, including his final battle with the dragon.
Why is the hero Beowulf still appealing today?
Beowulf remains appealing today due to its raw portrayal of heroism and strength, akin to the allure of war-themed video games. The epic resonates with modern audiences through various adaptations, including music, novels, comics, and films. Beowulf's brutal efficiency in defeating foes like Grendel without "falsifying sweetness" connects with audiences who appreciate the depiction of a world mirroring our own, emphasizing the timeless struggle between good and evil.
What's a good thesis statement on how Beowulf was a hero?
A good thesis statement on how Beowulf was a hero could be: "Beowulf becomes a hero through showing his courage and strength in taking on monsters." Beowulf demonstrates heroism by slaying Grendel and his mother, who terrorized the Danes, and by killing a dragon to protect his people, even at the cost of his own life.
How do "wyrd" and "fate" influence Beowulf's actions in the poem?
In Beowulf, "wyrd" and fate deeply influence the characters' actions, as they believe that fate is the ultimate decider of life and death. Beowulf acknowledges that success or failure is dictated by fate, leading him to perform heroic deeds to ensure his legacy. Despite Christian elements, the poem's characters often revert to fatalistic pagan beliefs, emphasizing fate's control over their destinies.
The epic nature of Beowulf
Beowulf is considered an epic due to its grandiose themes, heroic characters, and its depiction of the protagonist's journey, which involves battling formidable monsters like Grendel and the dragon. The narrative is marked by elevated language and explores universal themes of bravery, honor, and the struggle between good and evil, characteristic of the epic tradition.
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