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Beowulf

 

             An epic poem is a long narrative that tells the story of a hero who represents the highest ideals of his people. The Anglo-Saxons envision a hero as someone who is brave, shows leadership qualities and has great physical strength. Beowulf is a great example of an epic hero, because he demonstrates all three of these qualities. Beowulf shows his bravery when ascends into the lake of fire; he demonstrates his strength when he fights Grendel and his mother; Beowulf demonstrates his leadership qualities when he makes sure, that if he dies, his men will be sent back to Geatland.
             Beowulf demonstrates his bravery when de decides to find Grendels lair in the lake of fire. "A stag with great horns, though driven through the forest on those shores. Refuses to save its life in that water." This shows bravery, because no one has ever been able to reach the bottom of the lake of fire, and live to tell about it. Also, he must reach the bottom of the lake on one breath of air, which will have to last him several hours. He also doesn't know if he will make, or what he might find at the bottom. This is bravery because he is the only person willing to risk their life on this dangerous feat.
             Beowulf demonstrates his physical strength when he fights Grendel and his mother. During Beowulf's battle with Grendel, his grip on Grendel's arm is so strong that it rips Grendels arm right off. " He twisted in pain, And the bleeding sinews deep in his shoulder snapped, muscle and bone split and broke. The battle was over, Beowulf had been granted a new glory." Also, he demonstrates his strength when he battles Grendels mother. While attempting to find the killer of her son, she finds him at the bottom of the lake of fire, in which she has guarded for 50 years. During the battle, Beowulf's trusty sword Hrunting, turns out to be useless. Beowulf looks up and sees a massive sword built for giants. No man could ever lift it, however Beowulf summons the strength, and brings it down on her head, killing her.


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