Beowulf - Definition of a Hero

Different cultures around the world admire certain characteristics to create an ideal hero. Anglo-Saxons were tribal societies ruled by warrior kings who led their men into battle. The Anglo-Saxon period extended from about 450 to 1066. During Anglo-Saxon times protecting the safety of the people, exhibiting loyalty to the almighty king, and revealing extraordinary physical strength created an ideal hero in the Anglo-Saxon society. A legendary figure of divine descent with great strength and abilities describes the …

…demonstrated allegiance by requesting that his armor be returned to Hygelac in the event of his death. To conclude, Beowulf portrays the prime example of an Anglo-Saxon hero: protecting the safety of his people, displaying allegiance to the king, and withholding the strength of thirty men. After Beowulf’s death his popularity remained and continued to grow. The definition of a hero changes through times, but it remains once named a hero – always a hero.