Beowulf

While containing the characteristics of an epic, Beowulf also has the elements of an elegiac and heroic poem. I believe this epic can be considered as a “heroic-elegiac poem”. An epic is defined as a “long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society.” Although this is found in Beowulf, the elements of an epic hero poem and an elegiac poem combined, more completely …

…presence of evil in Herot affected the king as well as the common people in a negative way. Beowulf gained his recognition as a hero and became known throughout the land; his death was mourned by those he saved from evil forces—Grendel and Grendel’s mother. Combining the elements of an epic hero poem and a elegiac poem, it is seen how Beowulf is considered an epic, but more so as an “heroic-elegiac poem.”