Beowulf as a Hero

A hero must meet a stringent list of qualifications in order to be considered an Epic Hero. They must have enhanced skills that far surpass others coupled with increased strength and the courage of a lion. They must have a history of being successful in previous adventures, or exceptionally so in their first adventure. They must place utmost value on their honor while extending kindness or assistance to a friend or comrade while giving no such generosities to their enemies. Typically, there is a battle with some sort of demon or dangerous creature and a decent into darkness. (MISD)

Beowulf was born to the “founder of the Danish royal line” knows as Shield, Being born into royalty is one of the qualifications for an epic hero. “Beow’s name was known through the north. And a young prince must be prudent like that. . . Behavior that’s admired is the path to power among people everywhere.” These lines show that Beowulf extended kindness or assistance and was well liked. (Beowulf) As the tale continues, Beowulf goes through each of the stages of the heroic adventure. He is introduced via his heredity and bits of his personal history. Eventually there is a “Call to Adventure” as Beowulf heads the danger King Hrothar and his people are in. Beowulf gains “mentors and helpers” in the form of lessons learned through the king and the weapon from Unferth needed to kill Grendel’s mother. The “crossing [of] the threshold” comes from Beowulf crossing the sea to get to Denmark. He is then “tested” in the form of battles with Grendel and creatures only to receive an “Approach” in the form of Grendel’s mother, learning then that he’s not finished with his task. Beowulf then endures the “Ordeal” of traveling to her lair and killing her with a special sword. King Hrothgar “Rewards” Beowulf with massive treasure. After this Beowulf returns home, “Road Back”, and rules for some time. His “Atonement” is his final battle with a dragon that poisons him. Beowulf’s “Return” is his body being burned with his treasure in a place that overlooks the sea. (Campbell) He earned a hero’s death and his tale is retold countless times. Beowulf checks every box described by Campbell. He therefore fits the standard for a true epic here.

Campbell, Joseph. The Hero with a Thousand Faces. New World Library. 2008.

MISD. Characteristics of Epic Heroes. Montgomery