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Examples Of Archetype In Beowulf

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An archetype is a character or motif that appears in many types of literature, one of these is an epic hero. The epic hero is a character that appears in many old english poems, the most famous being Beowulf. Beowulf is set between 449-1066, but the exact date in unknown. During this time period many Anglo-Saxons took a part in mead hall, these mead halls and the people who were in them became their families. They were extremely loyal to them, and socially were switching from Paganism to Christianity. All of these are relevant when it comes to Beowulf and his actions and beliefs. Throughout history Beowulf has continued to be the epitome of an epic hero. Whether it be by displaying his humility,traveling over vast settings, or facing the supernatural. …show more content…

In the whole epic poem Beowulf, he is constantly displaying his humility. Throughout each story he selflessly risked his life in order to save people that he had never met or had no affinity to. Whether it was the people of Herot or his own people he saved many lives, losing his own in the end. In his final battle against the dragon, Beowulf takes upon the quest, knowing that God and fate are not on his side, “ And for the first time in his life that famous prince Fought with fate against him, with glory Denied him.” This one moment is Beowulf’s biggest act of selflessness. He risked his life for his own people, knowing that he could die. Beowulf exemplified the exact same humility while battling in place of the Anglo-Saxon’s. Each battle further strengthening his humility, in order to prepare him for his next

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