Beowulf Character Analysis Essay
The hero of all heroes, Beowulf, strong and courageous, is the prince of Geats. Once he makes a vow, he stands by his word, no matter what the cost, even if it takes his life. He is reluctant to back down from battle, just so he can be there for the people who are in great need to be saved from evil. He signifies the true heroic character because he is willing to risk his life for his ideals. Beowulf defeats three gruesome monsters, two of whom are descendants of Cain. Beowulf is able to show his characteristics both in his youth and in his older days.
Beowulf is able to show himself as a brave warrior in his youth for many reasons. In his youth, Beowulf is a great warrior, characterized predominantly by his feats of strength and courage, including his fabled swimming match against Breca. He also perfectly symbolizes the manners and values dictated by the Germanic heroic code, including loyalty, courtesy, and pride. His defeat of Grendel and Grendel’s mother signifies his reputation for bravery and establishes him completely as a hero. Beowulf is also able to demonstrate his leadership qualities in his older days in Geatland. Following the death of Hygelac rises an important transitional moment for Beowulf. Instead of rushing to the throne he steps back and supports Hygelac son, the rightful heir. With this gesture of gratitude and respect of the throne, he proves himself worthy of kingship. In this part of his life, Beowulf must now base his decisions on the good of the people, rather then for his own glory, differ from his days as a heroic warrior. An example of this is when Beowulf decides to kill the dragon that had just mercilessly burned the Geats home’s and lands. Beowulf and his Thanes set out to kill the Dragon. Upon seeing it, the Thanes immediately flee, leaving only Wiglaf to battle at Beowulf’s side. This proves that Beowulf is still a courages warrior and a rightful leader, willing to risk his life to protect his people.
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Beowulf is able to show himself as a brave warrior in his youth for many reasons. In his youth, Beowulf is a great warrior, characterized predominantly by his feats of strength and courage, including his fabled swimming match against Breca. He also perfectly symbolizes the manners and values dictated by the Germanic heroic code, including loyalty, courtesy, and pride. His defeat of Grendel and Grendel’s mother signifies his reputation for bravery and establishes him completely as a hero. Beowulf is also able to demonstrate his leadership qualities in his older days in Geatland. Following the death of Hygelac rises an important transitional moment for Beowulf. Instead of rushing to the throne he steps back and supports Hygelac son, the rightful heir. With this gesture of gratitude and respect of the throne, he proves himself worthy of kingship. In this part of his life, Beowulf must now base his decisions on the good of the people, rather then for his own glory, differ from his days as a heroic warrior. An example of this is when Beowulf decides to kill the dragon that had just mercilessly burned the Geats home’s and lands. Beowulf and his Thanes set out to kill the Dragon. Upon seeing it, the Thanes immediately flee, leaving only Wiglaf to battle at Beowulf’s side. This proves that Beowulf is still a courages warrior and a rightful leader, willing to risk his life to protect his people.
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