The qualities of the main characters in both The Iliad and Beowulf are very similar. The protagonists in both epics, Achilles, and Beowulf, participate in supernatural battles that most of the time determine the fate of their nation, their character traits reflect important ideals of their society, and they both have supernatural powers that separate them from the rest of the warriors. The epics openly exhibit the related characteristics between Achilles and Beowulf.
             Beowulf and Achilles are trusted with maintaining the strength of their nations. They were fantastically strong warriors, and the result of their battles determined the fate of their country. The Greeks, with their best warrior, Achilles, off the battlefield were easily driven back by Hector and the Trojans (Homer 67). Hrothgar chose the mightiest men and the ablest in order in order that his honor and their territory could be defended from their opponent, "Beowulf, Higlac's/ Follower and the strongest of the Geats-greater/ And stronger than anyone anywhere in this world-" (Beowulf 36). Both the nations had faith in both Beowulf and Achilles to strengthen them.
             The heroes' character traits reflect important ideals of their societies. Both Achilles and Beowulf had a major influence in their society's ideals: thus the people imitated the example they set. "My lord Higlac might think less of me if I let my sword go where my feet were afraid to" (Beowulf 38). Because Beowulf is never afraid to fight, he is a good example of perseverance and courage (Ker 1). Achilles holds tight to his purpose of killing Hector seeking revenge for Patroclus' death and the glory of the Greeks, which makes him an excellent example of what fighting for the right purpose is "Do not attempt to keep me from the fight,/ though you love me: you cannot make me listen." (Homer 69). Both characters are impressive in the standards which they set for the people.
             Additionally, both Achilles and Be...