AP Literature Assignment #2
What makes an Anglo-Saxon hero?
Heroes can represent very different
characteristics, fight for different principles, and embody different morals.
Heroes in Asia might strike one in Europe as odd, and of course, heroes in
Europe might be repulsive to one in Asia. As such, the Anglo Saxon representation
of a hero is unique in its own light.
Beowulf is a legendary warrior from
Geat, a country that neighbors the Danish people. Beowulf seems to be the
representation of everything that makes a hero during the Anglo Saxon era. One
of the most important traits that an Anglo Saxon seems to consider in a hero is
the hero’s awesome strength. Constantly the epic mentions the incredible
strength of Beowulf. Hrothgar describes Beowulf as, “a thane, with the strength
of thirty in the grip of each hand.” (Lines 380-381) Even Beowulf himself
acknowledges his strength by telling Hrothgar, “So every elder and experienced
councilman among my people supported my resolve to come here to you, King
Hrothgar, because all knew of my awesome strength.” (Lines 415-418) The fact
that the elders chose Beowulf because of his strength makes it clear the
importance of strength in deciding a hero. Another trait that seems important
for an Anglo Saxon hero is the trait of courage. The epic describes Beowulf as,
“the man whose name was known for courage…” (Line 340) The fact that Beowulf
was known for courage over other traits highlights the fact that courage plays
an important role, and is valued among the Anglo Saxon society. Beowulf
demonstrates his bravery with speeches such as, “And I shall fulfill that
purpose, prove myself with a proud deed or meet my death here in the
mead-hall.” (Lines 636-638) It is also interesting to consider the importance
of generosity and manners in a hero as well. Although unnaturally boastful, Beowulf
in essence is a very mannered man, as seen by his introduction: “If your lord
and master, the most renowned son of Halfdane, will hear me out and graciously
allow me to greet him in person, I am ready and willing to report my errand.”
(Lines 344-347) Beowulf’s formalities are also observed throughout the epic.
Hrothgar praises Beowulf not only for his strength but because he knows how to
respect and speak formally: “You are strong in body and mature in mind,
impressive in speech.” (Lines 1844-1845)
To summarize, this quote alone
seems to summarize everything that makes Beowulf such a great hero, and all the
traits that the Anglo-Saxon’s seem to think vital for a hero. “He was
formidable in battle yet behaved with honour and took no advantage; never cut
down a comrade who was drunk, kept his temper and, warrior that he was, watched
and controlled his God-sent strength and his outstanding natural powers. (Lines 2178-2183) Brave. Powerful. Honorable.
Personal Reflections
Personally, the character of
Beowulf was a bit shocking for me at first. My culture and my family have
always emphasized the importance and the need for humility. However, Beowulf is
a master in announcing his amazing traits. When he throws around words like, “I
was the strongest swimmer of all,” (Line 534) it was hard for me to look at him
in a good light. However, I think the beautiful thing about Beowulf is that he
isn’t simply boasting, he is actually telling the truth. He “talks the talk and
walks the walk”, which makes Beowulf impossible to hate. If I killed two great
stalkers of darkness and slew a dragon, I too would probably make known my
awesome strength. Plus, he doesn’t boast to make another feel less of himself,
but boasts to reassure someone that he can help – a boast that works to help
others. Ultimately, I think that culture also plays an important part. I’m sure
that during Anglo-Saxon England, it was considered heroic to be able to boast,
and that people encouraged others to boast if they had something to boast
about. Undeniably, Beowulf did have something to boast about. No argument about
that.
All hail Beowulf, the awesome warrior.
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