The Epicity of Beowulf
Why is this epic, so epic?
Although Beowulf is considered an epic for it embodies many epic traits, the trait of action consisting of deeds of great valor and courage, is the one this epic could be most defined by. Beowulf revolves around the heroic deeds of a brave, great warrior from the land of Geats. Soon enough, his unshaking courage brings upon him an adventure to defeat Grendel, a dreadful demon terrorizing king Hrothgar's people. Little does he know, defeating him wouldn't be the end of this epic journey.
Throughout the poem, Beowulf's most prevalent hero trait, bravery, is clearly depicted. This is enforced when he insists on battling the frightening demon, Grendel, with his bare hands, "Might think less of me if I let my sword" Reasoning that using a sword and armor would be dishonorable and unfair to a beast that uses none, "that he needs no weapons and fears none. Nor will I"
At last, the brave warrior, "the mightiest man on earth, highborn and powerful", confronts the dreaded demon. During their encounter, Grendel shrieking in pain, is found afraid for the first time, and last..."at heart he feared, sorrowed in soul" Fatally wounded, the demon manages to escape, but promptly bleeds to death.
Thereafter, Grendel's mother impulsed by anger, grief, and ache for revenge, attacks Heorot, "keen and cruel, her kin to avenge, faring far in feud of blood".
This being the second time, Beowulf filled with courage and bravery, seeks her out and goes into the lair alone. During this battle, the mother driven by revenge and anger, nearly kills Beowulf, but he manages to kill her in time, with an ancient sword inside the lair.
These courageous deed of valor, brought great recognition and respect to his legacy as a brave, fearless warrior; honoring the king and the people of Geatland.
After king Hygeral and his sons' death, Beowulf is crowned king of Geatland, for to his numerous heroic deeds and exceptional bravery. For 50 years, the kingdom lived in peace, with Beowulf ruling wisely. However, soon enough a new threat arises, endangering the integrity of Beowulf's people. With around 75 years of age, Beowulf's courage hadn't dimmed even slightly.
And Beowulf's boundless bravery is here portrayed, instead of lining up an army against the dragon, he decides to take it on alone, "He had scant regard for the dragon as a threat, no dread at all of its courage or strength" Thereupon. deciding to give his last battle against the fire-breathing dragon, "Atheling brave, he was fated to finish this fleeting life, his days on earth, and the dragon with him". Beowulf left a reputation of numerous deeds of great valor courage, and bravery.
Under his dying breath, Beowulf says:
"I thank God that I can give my people these gifts of gold. But you must see to the people's needs now, Wiglaf. I cannot be here any more. After they burn my body, tell the warriors to build a great burial for mound on the cliffs that stick out into the sea. The sailors steering their ships on the gloomy waters will see it Beowulf's Barrow, and my people will remember me. You are the last of our family, Wiglaf. All others fell when Fate decided they must. Now I must follow them"