Subjects:
Within the tale of “Beowulf” four character traits can be found which define the Anglo Saxon Hero. The first is loyalty, as demonstrated by the relationship between Lord and thane. According to page 23 of the “Beowulf” introduction, “a relationship based less on subordination of one man’s will to another than on mutual trust and respect.” The second and third characteristics are strength and courage. The importance of these specific traits to the Anglo-Saxon people is clearly presented during the reciting of Sigemund’s tale within Heorot. As the song states, “He was adventurer most famous, far and wide through the nations, for deed of courage – he had prospered from that before, the protector of warriors – after the war-making of Heremod had come to an end, his strength and his courage” (38). The final piece which comprises the Anglo-Saxon hero is the notion of fame. The only after life a warrior could ever aspire to have was immortality through fame. One again this is explained by the introduction to the story, “Beowulf’s chief reward is pagan immortality the memory in the minds of later generations of a hero’s heroic actions” (24-25).
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During the battle Beowulf’s men remain loyal to their leader and stay by the side of the lake even after the Sycldings left the hill. His strength is unparalleled, as he is able to defeat each of his opponents and perform feats of unmatched endurance. It is important to note, however, that this courage does not come from A strong mind, but rather from an unquestioning belief in fate, which in turn, is completely at God’s command. Although Beowulf dies, he does achieve the goal of the hero – to be imortalized. After Grendel’s Mother swarms the castle in retribution for the murder of her son (choosing to wage war instead of accepting wergild) Beowulf is determined to do away with the descendent of Cain. The only exception is Wiglaf, son of Weohstan, who quickly jumps into battle to aid his lord. He posses unfaltering loyalty to his king and allies, and save for his final battle his thanes show the same devotion to him. Beowulf remains as just courageous and as ravenous for fame in his elder years as he does in his youth. And so Beowuld remains a hero – and an immortal. Having no heirs he passes his kingdom on to Wiglaf, who Beowulf describes as the last of the race of Waegmundings. Beowulf states, “I claim myself no poorer in war strength, war works, than Grendel claims himself. As the battle between Beowulf and the dragon becomes increasingly violent all the thanes flee. Here it is Wiglaf who possesses the heroic traits. And when Beowulf does finally resurface he has not only killed Grendel’s mother, but has come back with Grendel’s head, as well.
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