Beowulf vs. Achilles

The Comparison of Heroes In mythology and legend, a man, often of divine ancestry, who is endowed with great courage and strength and celebrated for his bold exploits, is thought of as a hero. Beowulf and Achilles are both renowned epic heroes who encompass all those traits. Although they share the qualities of great heroes, there are some discrepancies in the characteristics they possess and the way the hold themselves in all aspects of life. …

…is forced into a destiny of early death and the loss of his dearest friend. At the end of the poem, we see a transformation in Achilles’ attitude. Yet, as tragic as his character is, Achilles still is human enough to grant an old man a wish, though it hurts him to do so. At the end of the poem, we see not only the noble man he is, but also the hero within him.