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Sir Gawain

 

            Beowulf: The Ultimate Hero A hero is one who places himself or herself at risk for another by performing great deeds of courage. Often in our society today, athletes are looked up to as heros. Brett Favre is an excellent example of a modern day hero. He is looked up to by many for his strength, leadership, and success. While on the football field, he is willing to risk his "life" by running the ball in when there is no one else to go to. Favre also gives all of the glory to God. Whenever he has conquered another team, or made the winning play, all praise is given to God. In the poem Beowulf, translated by Constance B. Hieatt, Beowulf is an epic hero. An epic is a "lengthy narrative poem which genealogizes and embellishes the origin of a tribe or nation". (Edward A. Bloom) Not only is Beowulf a hero because of his physical strength, but like Favre, gives the glory to God. Beowulf is the ultimate hero who put his life on the line for an entire kingdom. Beowulf's heroism can be seen when he takes 14 of the bravest in his land to go help Hrothgar. Hrothgar was Beowulf's father's close friend who had been plagued by attacks for twelve years that threatened an entire kingdom. Beowulf did not have to offer Hrothgar's kingdom help, but does so because he wants to uses his God given strength to the best of his ability. As soon as Beowulf heard of the troubles in this land he set sail immediately. Beowulf continues to show his thankfulness by thanking God for giving them safe travel across the sea. Beowulf is lead to Hrothgar and offers him is "services." "-Now sit down to the feast, and, in due time, listen to lays of warriors' victories, as your heart may prompt you. (15) Beowulf is asked by the warriors to tell of his past defeats while eating in Hrothgar's palace. Beowulf is already a hero to the people of this land for he is about to rid them of their enemy. The warriors are anxious to here what he has done and what he plans to do to Grendel.


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