Power: The Power In The Epic Of Beowulf

What is power? In science, power is the rate work is done. In politics, it is the amount of influence or authority a person has over a group of individuals. In life, power may mean just how strong someone is. In summary, there are many different types of power. However, what exactly makes someone powerful? Is it the amount of loyal followers they have or the way the carry themselves through life? Throughout the years, there have been many different kinds of rulers whom have wandered the Earth. Some were gifted their leadership, and others have forced their way to the top. Some kept the peace, while those not fit to rule only brought discord. In “Beowulf”, Beowulf is a warrior who is favored by his people to take the thrown after their king was killed from an attack. In the epic poem “Beowulf”, the ambitious mentality, courageousness, and confidence of Beowulf grant him an absolute powers that others lack.

When battling Grendel’s mother, Beowulf’s weapon and armor began to fail him after “she ripped and … clawed at him”, leaving him defenseless to the “water-witch” (71). Any sane person would have retreated to fight another day, but Beowulf’s wish for fame and glory motivated him to find an alternative way to continue fighting. Also, even though others left him for dead, his power to overcome the impossible left everyone in awe, granting him even more respect than he already had. Did Beowulf expect the new fame? Most likely, since it was his main motivation. Additionally, if Beowulf did not have this mentality, he may have been another Hrothgar who only sat in his “glorious throne, protected by God” and waited for the help to willingly come to him instead of searching for another’s land help