Beowulf

A common theme in mid-evil literature seems to be heroism. Two such cases of literature is Beowulf, by an unknown author, and The Prince, by Niccolo Machavelli. In these works, the author seems to be giving their ideas and philosophies on how to be a good leader. In this essay, I will examine both of these texts, analyze the traits the author gives for being a good leader, and argue why I believe that Beowulf is a better example of a leader. A heroic attribute that Beowulf possesses is his physical strength. He fought numerous battles and returned victorious from all of them except for his last. When the Danes were being terrorized by a monster named Grendel, it was Beowulf they called on to hel

Beowulf risks his own life for the Danes, asking help from no one. He came and was strong enough to rip its arms off. He faces that reality by showing no fear and preparing for either a positive or a fatal outcome in all his battles. After Beowulf had served his people as King of the Geats for fifty years, he goes to battle one last time to fight a horrible dragon that is frightening all of his people. He goes on to defeat the dragon in order to protect his people. "And if death does take me, send the hammered mail of my armor to Higlac, return the inheritance I had from Hrehtel, and from Wayland. Even in death he wished to secure safety for the Geats, so a tall lighthouse was built in order to help the people find their way back from sea. He is sent to help the Danes to get rid of the evil Grendel. The sword he used in this battle was so heavy, it normally takes four men to carry it, but Beowulf can carry it with ease. Beowulf is old and tired, but he realizes that it is his responsibility as the king to go battle this dragon. Another heroic trait of Beowulf is his ability to be loyal to his people, no matter what the obstacle. Then, Beowulf slashed Grendel"tms mother"tms head off, when she came to seek revenge for her son"tms death. Even with the enormous amount of confidence Beowulf possesses, he understands that fate will work its magic no matter what and he could be killed at any point in his life.