Heroes today are defined as people who go daily beyond the call of duty putting their life on the line. Heroes in the time of Beowulf were classified by the deeds they accomplished, their superhuman strength, and their nobility of birth. In the epic poem Beowulf, Beowulf is truly a hero exhibiting superhuman strength; defeating unbearable odds, and dying with honor. Beowulf's steadfast courage and superhuman strength are characteristics of an epic hero.
             Beowulf portrays great bravery, beyond that of any of his comrades. Showing no fear Beowulf "leaps into the lake, not waiting for anyone's answer; the heaving water covering him over." (ll. 450-452). "For hours he sank through the waves; at last he saw the mud at the bottom" (ll. 452-453). Beowulf's courage and persistence is shown here in the fact that he leaps into a burning lake and swims down for hours not hesitating once. Furthermore, the waters intensity is shown by the adjective phrase, "the heaving water covered him over." Later in Beowulf's final battle he does not cower in the presence of the dragon, but "roars out a battle cry, a call so loud and clear that it reached through the hoary rock, hanging in the dragon's ear." (ll. 646-649). Also knowing that fate was against him Beowulf "stood firm, unmoving, prepared behind his high shield, waiting in his shinning armor" (ll. 661-663). Beowulf knows that fate is against him, but uses all his might and resourcefulness to fight off the dragon with the last of his strength. Finally, Wiglaf a faithful follower helps Beowulf destroy the dragon. Beowulf is held high as a hero, even after death. Beowulf has or shows no fear when getting ride of the demons that plague the land.
             Beowulf shows mighty superhuman strength when getting ride of the demonic creatures. While men cower in the sight of Grendel Beowulf is able to "tear the tears out...