Beowulf and the Odyssey: two popular old pieces of literature that are very closely related in some of their themes. In the following paragraphs I am going to attempt to explore each of the books themes, and then show where and how they link together.
             Structurally, Beowulf is divided into three main parts, each one centering around Beowulf's confrontation with a certain monster: first Grendel, then Grendel's mother, then, fifty years later, the dragon. Each monster functions symbolically as a force of evil against him, which can be tested by the moral force of the heroic code of honor, that continues throughout the epic, represented by Beowulf, the hero who most perfectly remains to that code. The list of traits and behaviors, that include the code of honor, make up a large portion of the theme of Beowulf, as situation after situation, he is introduced to demonstrate proper and improper ways to behave. Beowulf himself emphasizes the importance of reputation and fame as part of the heroic code, continually boasting about his exploits, and describing fame as a wall against death. Another aspect of the code explored throughout the epic is the "decency" of revenge. When an ally is killed, it is more honorable to avenge his death than to mourn it. This is shown by Beowulf's attack on Grendel's mother following the murder of Aeschere.
             The Odyssey depicts a magical, mystical world, in which Odysseus uses his sharp wits and bravery to overcome terrifying creatures and vengeful gods. The Odyssey picks up the story of Odysseus some time after the end of the Iliad, detailing his long and tiring ten-year journey home after the end of the Trojan War. The main themes of the Odyssey deal with the values and customs that were key to uniting a geographically and socially-fragmented ancient Greek world: hospitality to strangers, loyalty to friends, the maintenance of reputation, and the balance between pride and honor (emph
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