Sir Thomas Malory brings forth a courageous character , 'King Arthur', utilizing weaponry and leadership, to enlighten the reader of the unique characteristics of a true hero, on the other hand, the unknown author of 'Beowulf', depicts the Anglo-Saxan era to tell a story of one who fights to better society. The noble King moves as a unit with his men and pride to protect and serve the kinsmen of his realm. Beowulf wards off evil, unaccompanied, with nothing but his hands.
As a distinct hero of the Medieval Period, King Arthur relied greatly upon his arms and retainers. 'Take thou here Excalibur...' The King had a extraordinary sword which he brought forth and kept at his side at all times. He fought many battles and bore great trust into his prominent sword. '`Now give me my spear.' Then the King got his spear in his hands and ran towards Mordred.'
An illustration of Grendel by J.R. Skelton from St...
English: An illustration of Beowulf fighting the d...
"Sir Mordred" from King Arthur: The Tales of the R...The mighty Arthur depended largely upon weapons as an alternative to hand-to-hand combat. 'He behold that noble sword - That the pommel and the haft was all preious stones.' The distinguished Excalibur was carried and shown with dignity. Immense care and respect was imposed into the weapons of the king. The noble King Arthur utilized the arms of his time, opposed to Beowulf's unarmed way of battle.
Described as the strongest man in the world, Beowulf voyages across seas slaying evil demons with nothing but his bare hands. '...Knew at once that nowhere on earth had he met a man whose hands where harder.' In the confrontation of Grendel and Beowulf, our hero brings forth a force greater than the unmerciful dragon. Weaponless, Beowulf slays the dragon with his divine tools of god. 'And was instantly seized himself, claws bent back as Beowulf leaned up on one...