Describes Beowulf as an epic hero through his Anglo-Saxon qualities he posesses.

Essay by studly001High School, 12th gradeA-, November 2003

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Qualities of an Epic Hero

The poem "Beowulf", of an unknown author, is set in the Anglo-Saxon Period, which starts in 449 and ends in 1485. In 449 the Germanic tribes, Angles, Saxons, and Jutes invade England. In 1485, Ending the Anglo-Saxon period was the Norman invasion. This poem is set in Scandinavia between the sixth and seventh century. The three tribes in this poem are Geats, Danes, and Swedes. An epic hero, such as Beowulf, possess qualities of loyalty, bravery, and superhuman strength.

Beowulf exhibits loyalty in the poem after he cuts Grendel's head off to show Hrothgar, the Dane's king. For example, "The Geats' brave prince entered Herot, covered with glory for the daring battles he had fought; he sought Hrothgar to salute him and show Grendel's head" (lines 572-575). Even though Beowulf is a Geat he still respects that Hrothgar is the king of the land that he is in, and salutes him.

As he comes into Hrothgar's presence he greets the king with utmost respect. "Hail Hrothgar" (lines 220)! If Beowulf did not observe Hrothgar as a leader of the Danes then he would not have said, "Hail Hrothgar!", he might have just said, hello.

Beowulf demonstrates bravery as he is ready to fight Grendel. For instance, "Out from the marsh, from the foot of the misty hills and bogs, bearing God's hatred, Grendel came, hoping to kill anyone he could trap on this trip to high Herot" (lines 269-272). Beowulf still battles with Grendel even though he knows Grendel is out to kill any man he comes to face. After Beowulf hears stories of how evil Grendel is, he still sails across the sea to fight him. He hears how Grendel filled nights with horrow he commands a boat be filled to sail and proclaims...