Beowulf: Multiple Characteristics Of An Epic Hero

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Beowulf is a very intriguing and meaningful poem. Many themes are portrayed throughout the poem. J.R.R. Tolkien suggests the theme is ‘man alien in a hostile world, engaged in a struggle he cannot win.’ This theme accurately describes Beowulf. Not only does the protagonist of the poem, Beowulf, exemplify this theme, he also shows multiple characteristics of an epic hero. Beowulf, hero of the Geats, came to offer help to the people of Heorot, where an evil monster wreaked havoc. He informs Hrothgar that he came to slay Grendel. Hrothgar allows him into the town to complete this task. The townspeople do not have much faith in him. This is due to the fact that Beowulf vowed to defeat Grendel with only his bare hands, no weapons. Regarding the