Heroic epic :: essays research papers

A heroic epic is an encompassing narrative poem, celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero. Beowulf exemplifies the traits admired by his people, and personifies Anglo-Saxon value. Strength, S belt down in battle, Courage, Fame, loyalty, and Generosity are the Anglo-Saxon values that Beowulf embodies and demonstrates throughout the story.As the poem begins, King Hrothgar of Denmark and his entire kingdom is existence terrorized by a monster named Grendel. The Danes suffer for twelve years at the hands of Grendel. Eventually, Beowulf and a fourteen men come to rescue Hrothgar, contumacious to defeat Grendel. Beowulf fights him unarmed, proving that he is stronger than the demon. Beowulf tears the monsters arm take and Grendel eventually dies. The arm is brought back as a trophy of victory. Grendels mother seeking revenge comes to Heorot and kills one of Hrothgars favorite men, Aeschere. Beowulf and social club travel to the swamp, where she lives, Beowulf dives in the water and fights her in her underwater lair demonstrating his skill in battle.Beowulfs courage, strength, and skill in battle was greatly apprehended by the Danes who now were able to live peacefully and monster-less. His fame has now interpenetrate throughout Denmark. After departing, Beowulf returns to Geatland and is reunited with his King and Queen. Beowulf tells of his actions in Denmark thereby earning even more than fame and gives most of the treasure he received to his king Hygelac to whom he is rattling loyal. During Beowulfs reign as King of the Geats, and as death is approach path a dragon unleashes fury on Geatland. Once again Beowulf demonstrates his courage. Beowulf and his nephew Wiglaf kill the dragon together, but Beowulf no longer as young or strong, is severely wounded. The dragon has bit him and its venom kills Beowulf moments later. Beowulf demonstrating his generosity gives dragons treasure to his people.