Heroes are a set pattern of ideals that conclude in triumph or a moral understanding. In relation to their society’s needs, others look upon them as an archetypal role model. Both Beowulf and Sir Gawain are examples of great heroes. They both show their current society’s strengths and values through a series of physical and mental trials. Yet this does not mean they are similar. Due to the difference in societies, each hero has its own ideals and values to live up to. The poem Beowulf idealizes the epic hero whereas Sir Gawain and the Green Knight idealizes the chivalric hero. It is their arduous trials, their model attributes and their contemporary societies that set them apart and lead us to believe in them as heroes. The trials of heroes give us insight onto their strengths, weaknesses, and heroic nature. For Beowulf, the challenges are defeating monsters and dragons. First, Beowulf meets Grendal in the mead hall and by defeating him, cleanses Beowulf’s society and makes it a better place. This is important for Beowulf as each physical feat must be met by a societal progression. This is the heart of what makes Beowulf a hero. Next, Beowulf challenges a dragon. Although he falls in battle, he still defeats his mighty foe. Again we see a societal transgression. It is within these great physical obstacles that we see him as a hero. This is not so in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Gawain, although strong, is not met with physical challenges, rather with spiritual ones. Instead of the mead hall and cavern, the inner mind is the stage on which Gawain fights. Instead of fighting dragons, Gawain fights beautiful scheming females. Although it seems less, it is perhaps a greater challenge.. Gawain must pass all the requirements of the ideal chivalric knight in order to triumph. Even though Gawain fails – he lacks in loyalty, says the Green Knight – he does in a sense become exalted. Gawain’s understanding and acceptance of his flawed nature show him to be a hero. These equal trials show us the heroic nature of these two great, different individuals. Heroes are an idealizement of human nature. They are the “perfect” people to whom we all aspire. Being “perfect” is of course debatable, but what remains is the solid founding attributes that we look upon as heroic. Both epic hero and chivalric hero possess valor, skill in combat, loyalty and generosity. It is the small differences in how they use them that make them different. The epic hero uses strength and skill in combat as his primary attribute. Military prowess make him stand out above his peers as leader of the tribe. He is viewed as the ideal savage warrior. Beowulf
is able to actually rend the arms from his enemy with arm strength alone. When asked to fight Grendal’s mother, he is able to dive into a monstrous swamp, holding his breath for days to reach his destination. The chivalric hero is quite different. His strength and skill come second to valor and loyalty. To Gawain, a courteous nature and standing up to insurmountable dangers makes his base as a hero. It is these attributes that are tested in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Gawain’s courtesy and loyalty is tested when he is tempted my his host’s mistress. Although he stands up to her, he is unable to keep to his distance. By accepting her protective girdle he shows his existence as a faulted hero. When he realizes this, he proves himself as a perfect imperfect being. The enhanced qualities of both heroes make them what they are and what we look up to. Both Beowulf and Gawain reflect their society’s values and dreams. Being fiction, it is in fact their society that shapes and melds them into what they are. Beowulf, the epic hero, lives in an honor/shame society, where a man’s “good name” is his most prized possession. The society is hierarchical and is controlled by a military aristocracy. Having this harsh society, Beowulf is made up as a rough, realistic character. Although elements of exaggeration or miracles appear in the epic, they result in no more than a heightening or aggrandizement of reality. Gawain on the other hand lives in a romantic society. The society is described only in materialistic tendencies, architecture and feasts and deals little with the actual political or geographic world. It does not deal with the “real” culture, rather a subset of it. The chivalric knight performs in a dream world that allows chance encounters with imaginary foes. Miracles are common-place if not expected. Castles appear at prayer, without question. These different societies are what set apart these two heroes; as epic, and chivalric. We believe in heroes because of the ideals they stand for. We view them as the epidamy of morals and human strengths. The problem is, these exaggerations are vast, difficult and abstract. It is impossible to tend to all of the human strength, morals and ideals in one character. Thus we see the differences in the two characters, Beowulf and Sir Gawain. They are both heroes in their own degree, but are cataloged under different human strengths. Sifting the two characters down to their inner selves, we see one major similarity,. humanity. Their own mortality leads them together against the odds which they face. That is what heroes are, and always will be.
33a
Другие работы по теме:
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Timeless HeroesBeowulf was
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Timeless Heroes Beowulf was written in the eighth century by an unknown author. The story is centered on Beowulf, the main character, who is able to use his super-human physical strength and courage to put his people before himself. He encounters hideous monsters but never fears the threat of death.
Gawian Essay Essay Research Paper English 120November
Gawian Essay Essay, Research Paper English 120 November 19, 1996 In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight the three hunts of Bercilak were similar to the three seductions of Gawain. Bercilak and Gawain made a bargain at the castle. Bercilak said ?Whatever I earn in the woods will be yours, whatever you win will be mine in exchange.? (Gawain 81) The Green Knight tells Gawain that he was sent by Morgana Le Fay because she wanted to test Gawain?s pride and ?determine the truth of the Round Table?s fame, and the tales that tell of it.? (Gawain 123)
Heroes And Hooligans Essay Research Paper Cruel
Heroes And Hooligans Essay, Research Paper Cruel kings, dangerous monsters, and vicious villains are the reasons we need heroes for. Heroes are the ones people root for and believe in. They are the ones who will save people from total annihilation by the evil threatening to eradicate them. People call and depend on heroes to save them when in need.
Beowolf Essay Research Paper 5 Paragraph EssayBeowulf
Beowolf Essay, Research Paper 5 Paragraph Essay Beowulf, the first piece of Angelo Saxon literature, truly a masterpiece in itself. Beowulf unfortunately has no author, but was translated and re-written by Vinerable Bede. Beowulf was a hero much like the hero’s we have here today. Grendel on the other hand was an evil villain, like the ones in the movies.
Sir Gawain And The Green Night
Vs. Beowulf Defining A True Hero Essay, Research Paper Defining a True Hero Is a hero the one who decides to stand up when everyone else is only thinking about it? Is a hero the one who retains integrity rather than give in to the world s everyday temptations? Is a hero the picture of courage, or an example of morals? These are the questions that arise after reading the epic story of Beowulf by an anonymous author, and the romantic tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, also written by an anonymous author.
Beowulf Vs Bond Essay Research Paper James
Beowulf Vs. Bond Essay, Research Paper James Bond, created by Ian Flemming, shows the attributes of a modern hero: he is Intelligent, charismatic, attractive, and cool and collect at all times. Anything is justified in getting the job done, and he uses deception, trickery, and gadgets to surpass his opponents.
Beowulf The Influence Of AngloSaxon Culture On
English Lit. Essay, Research Paper Epic poem is one of the first forms of literature developed by the Anglo-Saxon people. The epic hero is the main character of the epic poem, and must contain certain extraordinary qualities. The qualities of the epic hero often include; bravery, strength, and leadership.
Beowulf Theme Essay Research Paper BeowulfMythical monsters
Beowulf Theme Essay, Research Paper Beowulf Mythical monsters with great powers that get killed by human men are a typical theme in Anglo-Saxon poetry. Beowulf is an Anglo-Saxon poem translated by Burton Raffel. Three Anglo-Saxon ideals that are portrayed in Beowulf are strength of warriors, boasting of brave deeds, and the belief in the super natural.
Jewish Essay Research Paper Beowulf EssayThere were
Jewish Essay, Research Paper Beowulf Essay There were many differences between Beowulf the play and 13th Warrior the movie. In the play Beowulf was depicted as a soul warrior who?s strength and ability was
Beowulf Part 1 Essay Research Paper BeowulfPart
Beowulf Part 1 Essay, Research Paper Beowulf Part I The Anglo-Saxons were the members of the Germanic peoples who invaded England. They were people of their own time, language and culture. In the Anglo-Saxon adventure filled tale of Beowulf, the heron Beowulf was, at the time, considered the modern day superman.
Anglo Saxons Essay Research Paper Chivalry was
Anglo Saxons Essay, Research Paper Chivalry was probably most recognizable quality of Beowulf. If anything, Beowulf had great respect for his king. He loved him and honored him with all his heart. If asked to do anyhting by the King. Beowulf would accept with pride, Whn the King died, it was Beowulf that was asked to take over.
Two Warriors A Comparison And Contrast
Of Beowulf And The Knight From The Canterbury Tales Essay, Research Paper The Canterbury Tales CharacterKnightBeowulf Quest- fights religious wars - fights for god
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Beowulf written in
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Beowulf ,written in Old English sometime before the tenth century AD, describes the adventures of a great Scandinavian warrior of the sixth century. Beowulf tells the reader a lot about the time in which it was written. Heroes show what the society as a whole values. By looking at Beowulf we can tell what the tenth century AD Anglo-Saxons valued.
Who S The Hero Beowulf V. Sir
Gawain Essay, Research Paper Who s The Hero? Beowulf and Sir Gawain are both very brave characters. There are many similarities between the two. More numerous than the similarities are the differences. The differences between the two characters are like night and day. According to the dictionary, a hero is a man or boy of great courage, spirit, and has undergone great danger or difficulty.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper During the medieval
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper During the medieval era, many different heroes proved to be chivalric. Three of these heroes are Beowulf, Sir Gawain, and King Arthur. All these men have won great battles, which in turn endow them with hero status among their faithful subjects. These three heroes possess chivalric qualities, but none of them are perfect.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Strength in VictoriesIn
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Strength in Victories In the epic poem Beowulf, strength is clearly expressed in Beowulf?s victories. ?[Grendal] was instantly seized himself, claws bent back as Beowulf leaned up on one arm? (Beowulf 323-4). His strength alone could fight off a murderous monster with out the help of any weapons.
Blah Essay Research Paper Beowulf and His
Blah Essay, Research Paper Beowulf and His Great Qualities The story of Beowulf describes a man who has many great qualities. He is known as a true hero, having risked his own life to save those in danger. He has superior physical strength and is highly moral. However, at times, he is a bit foolish.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper In comparing the
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper In comparing the heroic qualities of Beowulf, and the heroic qualities of King Arthur, we will cite the main differences between the two. Beowulf battled for glory, honor, and to prove his masculinity. King Arthur, on the other hand, battles to preserve the rights of his people, and to uphold justice.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Beowulf Heroes
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Beowulf Heroes & Today’s Heroes Heroes today have changed from those of Beowulf’s day. Back in the time of Beowulf heroes were mainly the protectors of the country such as warriors and kings. The roles have changed today were heroes consist of celebrities and sport players. The roles have changed because our society has changed as well.
Beowulf 8 Essay Research Paper One of
Beowulf 8 Essay, Research Paper One of the most popularized books is “Beowulf”. It is a story about an all time hero. In this story Beowulf is named a hero because not only for his deeds, but his quality of how does them. Beowulf is characterized as being brave, smart, and strong.
Character Of Beowulf Essay Research Paper The
Character Of Beowulf Essay, Research Paper The Character of Beowulf Beowulf is a truly unique character in the realm of Anglo-Saxon poetry. Two main traits that make him stand out are his assertiveness and his yearning for fame. Beowulf shows incredible courage and confidence by slaying both Grendel and his mother.
Beowulf 2 Essay Research Paper Good and
Beowulf 2 Essay, Research Paper Good and evil has existed throughout time. Heroes have defended the righteous, as villains were bent on destruction. This story represents these qualities in both main characters. The struggle began when God allowed Satan dominion over the earth. Since then the battle between them has been recorded throughout literary history.
Heroism In Sir Gawain And The Green
Knight And Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Heroism in Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Night A hero, according to Webster’s New World Dictionary, is someone who commits an act of remarkable bravery or who has shown great courage, strength of character, or another admirable quality. He is looked up to for the brave and noble things he has done.
Beowulf Epic Essay Research Paper Epic poems
Beowulf- Epic Essay, Research Paper Epic poems and fairy tales have many similarities. An epic poem is a long narrative poem that deals with great heroes and adventures, and involves supernatural forces. A fairy tale is a story dealing with beings with magical powers. In fairy tales, characters can do the impossible.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Beowulf Writing AssignmentThrough
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Beowulf Writing Assignment Through the use of the conflict between good and evil throughout Beowulf, it was shown that two opposites could not peacefully coexist. Beowulf, with fourteen of his finest men, crossed the sea to help Hrothgar. Upon hearing of the Danes? horror, the hero decided to come to their aid.
Beouwulf And Eodipus Essay Research Paper Beowulf
Beouwulf And Eodipus Essay, Research Paper Beowulf and Oedipus the King: Two Different Heroes In both of these epics, Beowulf and Oedipus are seen as heroes and as saviors of the cities. Oedipus saves the city by solving the riddle of the sphinx, and Beowulf save the city by slaying Grendel and his mother. They both do possess characteristics that are very similar, but at the same time, they are two different men.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper BeowulfThe epic poem
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Beowulf The epic poem Beowulf, one of the sources for a Western paradigm portrays Christ as a warrior. The Anglo-Saxon tradions emphasises Christainity as a herioc code,
Symbology In Sir Gawain And The Green
Knight Essay, Research Paper Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Symbology “Trimmed with gold, it was green silk, embroidered with stones, but only at the edges” (Anonymous SGGK, 1832). The beautiful green belt, which Gawain received from the Host’s wife, represents Gawain’s weakness. One of the “rules” of the Round Table was to show no fear, which Gawain did exceptionally well.
Beowulf Is A Hero Essay Research Paper
BEOWULF IS A HERO By definition, a hero is a man of exceptional quality. Exceptional quality does not begin to describe the hero that is Beowulf. Of the tale of the same name, Beowulf could be described better as a saint, or a savior. His self-imposed purpose in life is to help others, and eventually sacrifices his own life in doing so.
Heroism Essay Research Paper Heroism Lies Within
Heroism Essay, Research Paper Heroism Lies Within One’s Self Heroes have played a part in society for a long time. They started long ago and sometimes people actually overlook that. Beowulf, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and The Faerie Queene all show aspects of heroism. The characters approached their heroism with different tactics but each character learned from their gain.
Beowulf Vs Arthur Essay Research Paper A
Beowulf Vs. Arthur Essay, Research Paper A man/woman of distinguished valor or enterprise in danger, or fortitude in suffering; a prominent or central personage in any remarkable action or event; hence, a great or illustrious person. We know of them as Superman, Batman or Spiderman. We call them heroes today and children very well know them.
Essence Of Wiglaf Essay Research Paper Essence
Essence Of Wiglaf Essay, Research Paper Essence of Wiglaf Actions and words are telling of a person s character. Of the men who had boasted they would repay Beowulf s kindness, only one man remained to help Beowulf when he needed help the most. The men who fled lack the conviction of their words, while the man who stayed displays fidelity to his lord and himself.
Beowulf Essay Research Paper Beowulf the protagonist
Beowulf Essay, Research Paper Beowulf, the protagonist of the epic poem, embodied all of these virtues and lives on in memory because of this. First, generosity was widespread and more greatly valued during Beowulf s time than it is now. It was not merely a virtue, but instead a necessity. Many kings were measured by the extent of their generosity.