Beowulf And Achilles: Similarities Of A Modern Hero

“A hero is someone who given his life to something bigger than oneself.” (Campbell) Beowulf is the Anglo Saxons. Beowulf most courageous warrior ever. He goes on quest and journeys and chose his path of being a hero and to kill monsters who ever tries to hurt Beowulf people. He keep his promises what the people ask him to do he will do it and serve his people. Beowulf is an epic hero because he is significant and glorified, risk deaths and he is ethical.

Both of these heroes demonstrated cunning, and wisdom through battle. They are both brave warriors because they fought even when the odds are greatly against them. Beowulf does this when fights Grendel, whom had been killing all of his men. Achilles shows bravery when he fights Hector, who was wearing Achilles’ armor which is incredibly strong. Both also great knowledge in battle.

Wiglaf knows his place as warriors and the rules that come with it. He sets foot into the Dragons’ lair and starts battling with the dragon. Wiglaf fearless and courageous, just as young and even old Beowulf, defeated the dragon and avenged his king. The relation between young Beowulf and young Wiglaf is that they both share the same aspects such as being fearless, having courage, and being selfless. They’re mentality is of protecting their king rather than themselves and of avenging their kings death no matter the situation.

A significant amount of being a hero involves physically fighting. One could say since Achilleus is fighting and presenting a hope of victory for the Argives then he is portrayed as more heroic. However, hero’s are praised for their selflessness in battle and their good hearts, not acting on anger and revenge. Patroklos sets a good example of a hero, with such empathy for his countrymen he says, “… such grief has fallen upon the Achaians. For all those who were before the bravest in battle are lying up among the ships with arrow or spear wounds” (XVI 22), and then pleading with Achilleus to let him go into battle.

However, heroism can take place in our everyday lives by simple brave actions. A hero has many noble qualities such as courage, humility, patience, being selfless and caring. They will put other people before themselves and make sure others are content. Heros are also intelligent and like to think ahead to plan on a good result. Although Victor very well fits the role of a tragic hero with a fatal flaw, he also fits the role of a hero.

He thinks he knows best but to him, violence is usually the answer. In most of the lands, Beowulf is known as a courageous warrior who can conquer any enemy, he is suited to be a king just like Thor. Beowulf is confident, he

First, we can examine Beowulf, which holds the many values of Anglo-Saxons within it. Beowulf tells the story of a warrior who continuously proves himself in battle and always stays true to his values of being a honorable warrior. When Beowulf first comes to Herot to serve King Hrothgar who needs help protecting his people from the murderous savage named Grendel, he immediately shows he is an honorable warrior: “I have heard, too, that the monster’s scorn of men is so great that he needs no weapons and fears none. Nor will I” (Raffel, pg. 48, lines 261-264.)

“…the whole of Grendel’s shoulder and arm, his awesome grasp” (Heaney 130) illustrates Beowulf’s feat in destroying Grendel. The battle between Beowulf and Grendel shows the loyalty, courage, and strength that Beowulf possesses. The theme of battle describes the elements of good (Beowulf) and evil (Grendel). He takes on the responsibility of protecting his people by battling the evil monster. Beowulf puts his trust in the God and lets him determine his path of victory.

Hero can be anyone, just have a good heart and courage to save or help the people around you. The task doesn’t have to be extraordinary but it can just be small simple act of nobility of character. Beowulf fit the standards as a classic hero, one who is near perfect, preforms extraordinary task, also his honor is worth more than his life, and dies in an unusual meaningful manner. There characteristics usually conclude being prideful, courageous and having sense of justice. Beowulf shows all of these

In Anglo-Saxon literature, in order to be a hero you had to be a warrior. Hero’s has to be substantial, intelligent, and kind-hearted. Being a Warrior means having to face any causes, and fight to the death for the people who honor you. The Anglo-Saxon heroes were able to be all of these and still be kind-hearted. In Beowulf, he is a perfect example of an