Williams 1
Williams 4
Ryan Williams
Ms. Foster
English III
September 12, 2014
A Hero and His Heroic Friend
When the first part of September rolls in, there is a topic that always comes up regarding the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001: the heroes who did not think twice about going to help those in need. Regardless of what time period in history, there are always heroes who are remembered for the things they do. In the classic epic poem of "Beowulf," the protagonist, Beowulf, leaves his homeland in order to help defeat a dangerous monster. Beowulf fights with the monster, nicknamed Grendel by the locals, and continues to lead the fights with more monsters as the story progresses. Beowulf has a supporting cast of fourteen men who stand by their lord's side and fight along side of him. He is joined on these adventures by Wiglaf, his closest friend and most loyal companion.
Beowulf and Wiglaf, throughout the plot, are illustrated as the two main heroes in this story. With Wiglaf by his side, Beowulf continues to rise to the challenge and is heroic in his efforts to stop evil. Although Wiglaf is undoubtedly a hero, Beowulf is the most heroic character displayed in this story.
In order for one to decide on which character is most heroic, one must know what it means for a person or character to be heroic. A hero is a person who provides or restores good to his/her people. Their decisions are not based on themselves, but on the interests of others. Their selfless attitude transcends social structure or positions in life. Their character and compassion, regardless of their position in life, defines these heroes and they rise above themselves, doing what they can with what they have.
Based on this...