In his youth, Beowulf is a great warrior, characterized by his feats of strength and courage, including his fabled swimming match against Breca. He also perfectly embodies the manners and values demanded by the Germanic heroic code, including loyalty, courtesy, and pride. Beowulf’s first display of heroism comes when he comes to the aid of Hrothgar, the aged ruler of the Danes. Hrothgar’s castle has been under siege by a monster

by the name of Grendel. A demon descended from Cain, Grendel preys on Hrothgar's warriors in the king's mead-hall, Heorot. A monster that has ravaged the best of Danish hero’s, Grendel seems to be a formidable foe for Beowulf. Yet, in the final showdown between the two Beowulf chooses to battle Grendel in hand-to-hand combat and wins by using one hand to rip off Grendel’s arm:

The second part of the story, set in Geatland, skips over the middle of Beowulf's career and focuses on the very end of his life. Through a series of flashbacks, however, we recover much of what happens during this gap and therefore are able to see how Beowulf comports himself as both a warrior and a king. The period following Hygelac's death is an important transitional moment for Beowulf. Instead of rushing for the throne himself, as Hrothulf does in Denmark, he supports Hygelac's son, the rightful heir. With this gesture of loyalty and respect for the throne, he proves himself worthy of kingship

The epic of Beowulf tracks the actions and maturity of one of literatures greatest hero’s. From a youthful indomitable warrior to a mature reliable king, Beowulf’s life lays the groundwork for all heroes to follow. The moral code which he adheres to shows not only that he is a great warrior but also a great man.

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