Beowulf an Epic Poem
An epic poem is "a long narrative poem in elevated style presenting characters of high position in a series of adventures which form and organic whole through their development of episodes important to the history of a nation or race" (handout: Epic). An epic consists of six characteristics: The first characteristic is that the "hero is a figure of imposing stature and a great historical or legendary significance" (handout: Epic). Second is based on the setting and the fact that it is "vast in scope". Thirdly the "action must consist of deeds of great valor or requiring superhuman courage" (handout: Epic). The fourth characteristics deal with supernatural forces, meaning Gods, angels and d
the monster's scorn of men is so great that he needs no weapons and fears non"(Language of literature # 38). The fifth one consists of the "style of sustained elevation and grand simplicity" (handout: Epic). this is one favor you should not refuse me. By wanting to kill Grendel without any weapons proves the strength and faith he has in himself; proving, that God is by his side and God's fate in Beowulf will help him fight Grendel and slay him. "Grendel ruled, fought with the righteous, one against many, and won; so Herot stood empty , and stayed deserted for years, twelve winters of grief for Hrothgar" (Raffel 27). He is faced with supernatural creatures, such as Grendel, Grendel's mother and lastly the dragon. He is looked up upon by everyone, for his courage in fighting demons and protecting the people from evil. Beowulf, alone portrays all six characteristics of what makes a novel an epic poem. In "Beowulf," Beowulf is considered the hero who has a figure of high status. Yet, one of the greatest reasons as to why "Beowulf" is considered an epic poem is because it is a parallel to that of the events in the Bible. The twelve years refers to the twelve apostles, which were twelve men chosen by Jesus they lived and worked with Jesus during His Ministry.
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Acceptance Essays
