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Compare And Contrast Beowulf And Sir Gawain

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Heroism is multifaceted and varies in size and form. Heroism is represented differently within the epics "Beowulf" and "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight." "Beowulf" is set in 1066 and tells the story of Beowulf, a hero, who willingly fights a monster to save a kingdom. "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" is set during the medieval period at King Arthur’s court and tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of the aforementioned Court, who sacrifices himself to save his king and peers. Beowulf shows his heroism through physicality, while Gawain shows his heroism through mentality. The question of who is more heroic depends on how you would quantify heroism. While Beowulf and Gawain both show varying qualities of heroism, Gawain is ultimately more …show more content…

He is a selfish character who performs heroic deeds for bragging rights and recognition. Beowulf brags about his achievements and fighting ability, stating, "I have more strength than any man under heaven… I slew with my sword nine monsters… I have heard of no such deed as done by thee" (Hinds 201-203). Beowulf displays how he is self-centered and seeks validation from others, as he holds his achievements closely and is often overbearing. Beowulf is driven by glory and fame, while Gawain is humble and selfless. Beowulf carries out heroic deeds seeking recognition, while Gawain seeks safety for his …show more content…

Beowulf shows his lack of courtesy whenever he enters the hall, saying, "I am Beowulf kinsman to King Hygelac... Many deeds of note have I done in my life" (Hinds 197). While Gawain shows courtesy when asking, "'Should you call me, courteous lord,'... politely take leave of my place at the table / and quit without causing offence to my queen" (Armitage, lines 223-226). When entering the hall, Beowulf is rude and brags to others about his achievements. When Gawain asks the king to leave his seat, he is polite and displays courtesy. Gawain is more heroic than Beowulf as he is well-mannered and conveys courtesy when comparing their "entrances" in the

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