Beowulf is a heroic poem widely considered to be the pinnacle of Old English literature and the first European vernacular epic. It is known to have been composed between 700 and 750 A.D, and it describes events that occurred in the early sixth century. It was renamed after Beowulf, a Scandinavian hero whose exploits and character form the central plot of the story. Although there is no historical evidence for Beowulf, some of the poem’s characters, places, and events can be validated historically. It took until 1815 for the poem to be reprinted. It is contained in the Beowulf manuscript, a single manuscript dating from around 1000.
In the story Beowulf, Beowulf is an extraordinary man who makes as an ideal person. His love for family, kindness, empathy, and general avoidance of violence and destruction is balanced by his bravery and efficiency in combat.
Popular Characteristics of Beowulf
Some of the characteristics of Beowulf are:
- Loyalty and Love: Beowulf was brought up by his grandfather at the age of seven. He is very loyal towards his family.
- Generosity and Compassion: Despite being a great warrior, he defeats monsters but only kills two humans, according to the tale. He also governs his kingdom in a peaceful manner.
- Strong Faith: Beowulf believes in God’s presence in his life and that God is in charge of human affairs. He is willing to put his destiny in God’s hands with trust and certainty.
- Selfless and Responsible: Beowulf travels across the sea to assist Hrothgar in defeating Grendel, taking responsibility for civilization beyond his own family and homeland. He is selfless in his willingness to put himself in harm’s way for others.
- Bravery and Courage: In his courageous desire to face monsters in order to protect the greater social order, Beowulf exemplifies bravery.
Beowulf is known for possessing thirty men’s strength. As he kills the monster Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and, later in life, a terrifying dragon, his renown grows. In Anglo-Saxon society, he exemplifies the importance of physical might and bravery.
Keep exploring EnglishBix to know about more old English literature epic poems.
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