Heroic epic :: essays research papers

A heroic epic is an extended narrative poem, celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero. Beowulf exemplifies the traits admired by his people, and personifies Anglo-Saxon values. Strength, adroitness 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 being 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, determined to defeat Grendel. Beowulf fights him un offseted, proving that he is stronger than the demon. Beowulf tears the monsters arm off and Grendel eventually dies. The arm is brought back as a trophy of victory. Grendels mother want revenge comes to Heorot and kills one of Hrothgars favorite men, Aeschere. Beowulf and company travel to the swamp, where she lives, Beowulf dives in the water and fi ghts her in her underwater lair demonstrating his skill in battle.Beowulfs courage, strength, and skill in battle was greatly appreciated by the Danes who right off were able to live peacefully and monster-less. His fame has now spread throughout Denmark. afterward departing, Beowulf returns to Geatland and is reunited with his King and Queen. Beowulf tells of his actions in Denmark thereby earning even more fame and gives most of the harbor he received to his king Hygelac to whom he is truly loyal. During Beowulfs harness as King of the Geats, and as death is approaching a potassium bitartrate unleashes fury on Geatland. Once again Beowulf demonstrates his courage. Beowulf and his nephew Wiglaf kill the dragon together, only when 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.