Analysis Of Beowulf As An Epic Poem

Throughout history there has been numerous types of poems written and recorded. The earliest poem which was written in English is Beowulf. An epic poem can be described as a narrative poem that has been passed down from generation to generation, which is more or less about a historical hero (EPIC). When debating whether Beowulf should or should not be categorized as an epic poem, there are more factors that contribute to its categorization such as its demonstration of heroism, therefore Beowulf is an epic poem. To begin with Beowulf throughout the whole poem was seen as godly. Beowulf was highly respected, The Geats and King Hygelac honored and “ensured his enternal reward” (Greenblatt pg. 85). Not only did this show the importance that Beowulf bestows upon others, it showed his loyalty in up keeping the safety of others. Battle after battle, Beowulf continued to demonstrate courage, loyalty, and bravery, which proves his heroism time after time. Schrader suggests that “ the interjected description of his son Beowulf adds that …show more content…
This fight is the most memorable, because it marks the end of Beowulf’s heir. Anlezark explains “the heroic ideal will not emerge from the point of view of those whose fears lead them to abandon Heorot by night or hide among the trees when the dragon comes”. In the poem Beowulf acts upon his respected duty as a king and possesses the drive to slay the dragon without fear. Before he sets out to slay the dragon he spoke to his men explaining that he must go alone saying “… This fight is not yours, nor is it up to any man except me…I shall win the gold by my courage, or else mortal combat, doom of battle, will bear your lord away” (Greenblatt pg. 171). Beowulf recognizes that this battle will be his last, and that he must do it alone in order to bestow peace amongst the Geats, that he had previously held for fifty