Beowulf: Epic Hero Final Essay
Gillespie
British Lit
The legendary hero Beowulf had great -- sometimes superhuman -- physical strength,
incredible bravery and confidence, and he was protected by special armor and weapons.
He was also accompanied by a loyal friend, Wiglaf, who assisted him when he needed
help defeating the dragon. A hero had to have courage, strength, and the will to overcome
obstacles. He had to be a good leader and a father figure to his followers. He would be
merciless to enemies but show mercy to the weak. Sometimes he would act with great
altruism, that is, on behalf of others without regard for self or self-interest.
Can you recognize this group of qualities in more recent figures? We tell stories about
national heroes of the American frontier and the American Revolution, such as George
Washington, Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. We have heroes of modern political
struggles, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks. The Nobel awards recognize
amazing achievements in the sciences, arts, and humanitarian work. Many very real, very
un-mythical people have become legends because we love to hear and to repeat their
unique stories.
Are there "legends" in sports and entertainment who might also qualify as heroes?
Does your school or town have a local hero? Who is a national or international hero? Do
you know someone whom you consider an unrecognized hero?
In an essay, compare and contrast Beowulf with a hero from popular culture (such
as Batman, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter) or contemporary history (a politician, artist, or
athlete).
What makes each character heroic? Identify heroic characteristics, explain how the
character exhibits those qualities, and provide relevant details.
Your essay should have an introduction and conclusion in addition to some background
information about your hero, and a description of their heroic characteristics and heroic
actions.
Rubric:
Heading, Title, Typed Format
Focus
Content
Organization
Style
Conventions