The classic hero possesses strength, ethics; and, above all, fights evil. This model applied in the time of Beowulf and still applies today, only slightly modified. As a result of such innovations as television and fashion magazines, society has come to value physical attractiveness and sexual prowess, as evident in the example of Batman, a modern day hero. Also, humility has become a desired quality in recent times, whereas self-confidence to the point of arrogance was a favorable attribute in the time of Beowulf. Despite the differences, similarities between the Anglo-Saxon hero and modern day hero can be seen through the comparison of Beowulf and Batman.
             Beowulf and Batman both possess the heroic quality of strength. Beowulf swims for seven days and fights nine sea-monsters, a feat that most men cannot accomplish. He demonstrates his power again in the battle with Grendel. Beowulf tears off Grendel's arms using his bare hands. Batman also has the classic heroic quality of strength. Batman single-handedly fights gangs of criminals on numerous occasions in the movie "Batman," showing not only muscular strength but endurance, much like that of Beowulf. Batman echoes the heroic strength of Beowulf.
             Batman and Beowulf also have strong codes of ethics. Batman often releases criminals after a fight instead of killing them. The criminals were not an immediate life threat, so Batman did not feel it was right to kill them. His code of ethics does not allow for murder. Therefore Batman kills only when necessary. Beowulf reveals his adhesion to a code of ethics in his argument with Unferth. Beowulf condemns Unferth, saying "You murdered your brothers, your close kin. Words and bright wit won't help your soul; you'll suffer hell's fires, Unferth, forever tormented." Batman and Beowulf share the same code of ethics: one that condemns murder. The heroes are true to their ethics and only kill when necessary.
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