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Beowulf

 

            
            
             In the Anglo Saxon Epic Beowulf, the protagonist Beowulf is a warrior with extreme determination which aids him in gaining glory and fame. However, this proves to be problematic because this extreme determination also leads him to take instantaneous action without thinking of the consequences. Unfortunately, this behavior results in his fatal death.
             Determination is the firmness of purpose. Beowulf shows examples of his strong determination over and over. For example, when Beowulf "heard how Grendel filled the nights with horror"(197) he becomes determined to go and set sail to meet the king to gain glory and fame. "Would sail the sea to Hrothgar, now when help was needed."(200-201) In this quote the words "would" and "now" are essential because they portray the willingness and immediate response from his determination. Beowulf volunteers willingly and quickly, calls for a boat to meet the king as soon as possible in order to go after Grendel. Without any hesitations, Beowulf did not expect any dangers, let alone death, but rather glory and fame. .
             This attribute of willpower is seen again when Beowulf hears of Grendel's mother. Hearing of her vicious attacks, Beowulf suddenly becomes determined and "he leaped into the lake, would not wait for anyone's answer" (1493-1494). This implies Beowulf's determination to kill Grendel's mother without thinking, planning, or rationalizing with anyone. He ends up diving in the lake to battle until death to gain glory and fame. Beowulf specifically leaped in to the lake, not jumped or dove, but leaped. Leaping is a form of spontaneous action taken by courage or faith. Beowulf did not wait for anyone's answer; he did not patiently wait for advice, but by his own faith and determination he leaps into his decisions. Surely, the powerful purpose and resolve is evident in the character of Beowulf. .
             Therefore, as a result of this determination within Beowulf, "Beowulf and fear were strangers; he stood ready to dive into battle.


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