Beowulf : An Anglo Saxon Hero

Beowulf: An Anglo-Saxon Hero Beowulf could, more than easily, be described as a typical Anglo-Saxon hero. More likely he would be the model of one. The story of his life was a staple in the Anglo-Saxon society. There are four distinct traits that make up the Anglo-Saxon hero. The first is loyalty, as demonstrated by the relationship of Feudal Lord and Thane. This was a true part of the Anglo-Saxon society. It was conveyed by the word "Comitatus." This deemed that the thanes would pledge their lives to their Feudal Lord. They would defend their lord’s life with their own; if they did not, it would be considered treason. Upon the death of their Feudal Lord, it would be their responsibility to defend his death. By not fulfilling all of the requirements of a Thane and Comitatus, they would be banished for life, and forced to wander the earth. Beowulf served as both a Thane and a Feudal Lord in his lifetime. Although he never was truly a Thane to King Hrothgar, he served under him to help protect his kingdom from a dragon who was terrorizing the area for more than 12 years. Later in his life he served as the Feu

When looking at the common traits of an Anglo-Saxon hero, anyone can see that Beowulf would be able to be classified as one. By looking upon the gold when he died, he felt he would have an "easier" passing to the other side. It gives them the power they need to overcome the problem they are having, along with any disturbances that may occur along the way to solving the problem. Whether it be physical, or mental, every, and all, fictional hero in any society has strength. He was self-proclaimed the "best of the best" in the world, while at the time he had not proved himself yet. If heshe didn"tmt have any courage they would not be able to perform, or complete and succeed, at the amazing feats the attempt. His courage is what made him the warrior that he was. The only after life a warrior could ever aspire to have was immortality through fame. Finally the fourth trait would have to be the characterization of "fame. dal Lord, or king, of Gaetland where he ruled for 50 peaceful years. He only sought out the monster Grendel in Hrothgar"tms Kingdom because he wanted the fame and notoriety. He then had his own Thanes who did abandon him, and were ultimatel!y banished for their lives. He also is willing to jump into, and swim for 24 hours in a lake that is filled with sea monsters; a lake that no other living thing would dare enter.