Epic Hero Chart - Epic hero answer

Classic characteristics

of an epic hero

Does this

apply to

Beowulf?

Describe all of the ways that Beowulf does or does

not display this characteristic (include line

numbers).

Born of noble or divine blood Yes In the lines 196-198 it talks about Beowulf and how he is "noble

and well-grown."

Introduced during the action, so

any backstory is provided

Yes

possesses powerful

weapons passed down by

the gods

No

sturdy in its edged, worthy for a warrior.", which he used to stab

the Grendel's mother in battle. Not his own sword. And his sword

wasn't passed down from the gods or possessed any power.

Exhibits the virtuous behavior

that the culture most values

(e.g., honor, wisdom, might)

Yes

In line 204, it talks about Beowulf's "mighty spirit."

In line 746, it claims Beowulf as the "mighty-minded warrior."

In the 827, after Beowulf won the battle it states, "wise and mighty

soulded."

From lines 2580-2601, beowulf is about to die due to his pride.

Which contributed to Beowulf making the decision to fight the

dragon when fifty years have passed since he fought Grendel or

Grendel's mother. He is of old age and he wanted to fight a dragon

because he still wanted the fame and glory or people knowing that

he is the hero and nobody else can be or will.