Beowulf was written anonymously about a journey which the main character, Beowulf took. In British literature, journeys are very commonly found. They not only portray a physical journey, from one place to the final destination, but also an emotional journey, where the main character goes through a transformation. Throughout the course of this epic poem, Beowulf undergoes changes such as in his attitude, actions, motivation, and stature as a hero. .
Beowulf's attitude and actions change from beginning to end. At the beginning, he was young and vigorous. He had a fresh attitude, and was very fair and honorable. This was evident in his first fight, against Grendel. Since Grendel hadn't any weapons or armor, Beowulf didn't use them. But later, in the fight against Grendel's mother, he used the weapons and armor. These actions showed that he no longer was as concerned for honor, whereas at the beginning it was apparent that he would take the risk of dying for it.
Along the lines of attitude, his motivation also changed. When he left Sweden, he went to fight for honor, glory, and for the King- Hrothgar. He felt like he was called to fight and that it was his duty. As he grew older, his motivation started to change, He fought dragons and monsters not for his original motives, but for the gold and treasure h would receive in turn. As he died, he said that he sold his life for this [the gold/treasure] and sold it well. One might consider that Beowulf had "sold out", since he acted and fought out of greed. .
Beowulf could be considered as a hero to many. One's opinion on the components of a person can make them see that person as a hero. A hero may be a strong, proud, honest person, who defeats evil and works for honor. The young Beowulf was an example of a person to possess those qualities. But once Beowulf's motivation transitioned, so did his stature as a hero. At one point it was very high, the next, decreased.
