Question

What traits make Beowulf an epic hero? Support your answer by citing explicit textual evidence. Please make at least 5-10 sentences.

Answer 1

Beowulf, prince of Geats, reflects the characteristics of a true hero. Through his two phases of life- young and age, poem exemplifies his heroism.

In his youth, he was characterized as courageous and full of strength. He embodied perfect characteristics of Germanic heroic code. He establishes himself as a hero when he purges Denmark of its plague.

In the second phase, Beowulf conforms himself as both king and the warrior. He is able to defeat three frightful monsters. Therefore, for the sake of his ideals, he was willing to stake his life and saved people from evil or those who were in great need.

"Fearful in spirit, faint-mooded waxed he, Not off could betake him; death he was pondering"