British Literature, 5.0
Anglo-Saxon Era Beowulf Essay
Every society has real or imaginary heroes who are individuals that people admire and
emulate. Similar to epic heroes like Beowulf, these heroes embody their society’s ideals
and defeat the monsters that threaten their society’s cultural values.
Assignment:
Choose an individual who is a current hero to some segment of American society today.
This individual must also be American. Personal heroes, such as your grandfather or
pastor, are not allowed. Research details about that individual and what makes him/her a
hero. Then write a 5-paragraph essay in which you discuss the qualities that define this
hero. Please do not simply report biographical information; you must actually PROVE
his/her hero status. Identify several distinct hero characteristics embodied by this being,
and the evils from which they protect us.
Requirements:
 Proper 5-paragraph format (appropriate introductory paragraph that states thesis, 3
body paragraphs with transitions, and conclusion that provides clincher)
 Definition of “hero” in our society
 2-3 examples of heroic traits embodied by chosen individual
 Identification of the “monster(s)” your hero fights against
 2-3 sources cited in a proper MLA Works Cited page
 Appropriate tone and language choices
 Proper Mechanics (free of contractions, incomplete sentences, or punctuation
errors)
 Thesis stated in intro, proven in body paragraphs, and taken to analytical level of
consideration in conclusion
Due Date:
Rough draft –
Final draft –