What makes a person a hero? Is it their strengths? Their morals? Is a hero always a hero, or can a hero be replaced? Throughout history heroes have emerged in literature. An epic hero is a character in literature whose traits are valued in the society in which the epic originated. In the epic poems Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Beowulf is much like Sir Gawain, yet the times in which each was written give both heroes unique characteristics.
             Originally a narrative poem about an epic hero in sixth century Scandinavia, Beowulf perfectly mirrors the Anglo-Saxon period. During one of the most turbulent times in England, the Anglo-Saxon culture was a warrior culture, violent and often brutal. They were being introduced to Christianity and turning away from the pagan ideas of fate and their belief in monsters. Beowulf is a model of Anglo-Saxon values. He is glorified for being strong, victorious, and of high status. Beowulf thanks God for his victories, but does his deeds for the glory it brings him, as when he asks Hrothgar to let him fight "My hands alone shall fight for me, struggle for life against the monster. God must decide who will be given to death's cold grip." (267-270).
             While Beowulf is a foremost example of an Anglo-Saxon hero, Sir Gawain is a leading example of a Medieval epic hero. During the Middle Ages the feudal system emerged, creating the infamous tales of kings and knights. Sir Gawain exemplifies the medieval epic hero. Sir Gawain follows the code of chivalry; respecting his king, admiring ladies from afar, and fighting in a honorable way. He is not only physically strong and good with a sword, but he is courageous, courteous, loyal, and humble. As with Beowulf, Sir Gawain accredits his accomplishments to God, but gives the glory to his King, proclaiming "That I have you for my uncle is my only praise" (130).
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