A hero is a person that does something extra-ordinary for a positive cause. I believe Beowulf fits this definition for many reasons. First of all, Beowulf is always loyal to his country, and was never upset with anyone for a foolish reason. He also defeats many monsters that have caused great harm, with Grendel being one of his big accomplishment (a big monster that killed 50 people in one night). He is a brave, witty warrior that deserves to be known as a hero.
             One quality of being a hero is willing to risk your life, to increase joy for others. In the book Beowulf risks his life multiple times. Every time he went out to battle, the normal man's risk to succeed was extremely low. Although he was not a normal person, he was the bravest and smartest of warriors, he was still although at a high risk fighting many monsters.
             Another quality of being a hero is being loyal to your family, friends, and country. Another way of putting this is an overall nice guy that doesn't hold grudges, and doesn't get upset over foolish incidents. For example, although Beowulf was very straightforward and bold, he was always appropriately nice to his fellow companions. For example, in the story he fights many monsters with no purpose besides saving innocent lives and obeying his king's wishes.
             Finally, being intelligent is the biggest must of all warriors. Although strength increases chances of winning a battle, without wits, you are hopeless. For example, when Beowulf fought the Dragon, jabbing his sword with all his might, he still could not penetrate the Dragon's scale-armor. But when he fought Grendel, he defeated him hand on hand. Grendel was not a weak monster either, he gathered up 50 men in one night carrying them away in the darkness. Over all the attributes one hero can have, Intelligence is the most needed.
             Beowulf is a person that did many extra-ordinary things for a positive cause. Beow
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