From the very start of the poem, the author creates the image of Beowulf as a fearless warrior who possesses ridiculous strength and bravery. The author also alludes to his nearly mythical good deeds, and we are left with the image of a seemingly immortal character, almost god-like in nature. The purpose of this essay is to analyze the author's description of Beowulf through the early parts of the piece and leading through his talk with Unferth. Through the early parts of the piece, the author seeks to portray Beowulf as a confident, brave leader who is a fearful warrior capable of accomplishing any task at hand. I will show this by examining the original introduction of Beowulf seen in line 194 and leading through his description prior to leaving on his journey to help Hrothgar.
When we are introduced to Beowulf we are immediately given the image of a courageous and respected warrior.
The Old English epic poem Beowulf is written in al...
English: An illustration of Beowulf fighting the d...
Beowulf & GrendelIn the first lines we are told that he is a "good man among the Geats" and that he was a man of awsome strength. We are immediately aware of his confidence and pride as it describes his burning desire to rise up to the challenge of Grendel, a enemy who has wreaked havoc in Heorot and slain hundreds of brave warriors who thought they were strong enough to overcome him. Another telling fact of the story is that even though he is loved by the wise men and warriors of his land, they do not hesitate to encourage him with his task regardless of the huge risk associated with it. His confidence along with the confidence that others have in him assert the fact that he is a proven warrior who has not yet been daunted by any task.
;Upon arriving in the land...