In "Beowulf", the hero of the epic poem symbolizes the esteemed principles of behavior treasured by the culture in which the poem was created. Beowulf, as the epic hero, exemplified these virtues.
Three of Beowulf's virtues included being true to his word, making his father proud, and displaying bravery. Beowulf demonstrated his truthfulness when he proclaimed, "I alone and the help of my men, may purge all evil from this hall." (260-261) Later in the poem, it is revealed that Beowulf fights the infamous killer, Grendel, and succeeds in killing him, with Grendel begging for mercy. Beowulf's bravery is evident in his willingness to face danger head on, as depicted in lines such as "When my danger is near, the warm words we uttered, and if your enemy should end my life then be." (451-453) He also demonstrates bravery by
...embarking on a solo battle against Grendel's mother, armed only with swords and armor - "She carried him, armor and sword and all." (479-480) Additionally, Beowulf's bravery is showcased when he prepares to fight a dragon, stating "I feel no shame, with shield and sword and armor, against this monster: when he comes to me I mean to stand, not run from his shooting flames, stand till fate decides which one of us wins." (635-639) Lastly, Beowulf expressed his desire to make his father proud by following in his footsteps.
Beowulf expresses the belief that his father, Edegtho, was a notably celebrated soldier who led others and left a lasting impression on wise individuals across the world. Beowulf aims to emulate his father's footsteps by embodying admirable qualities such as effective leadership, being a skilled soldier, an
a formidable fighter. By demonstrating virtues such as bravery and integrity, Beowulf intends to honor his father and make him proud.
Thus, Beowulf is the epic hero in the epic poem "Beowulf".
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