A Comparison of Beowulf, Sir Gawain and King Arthur as Heroes :: comparison compare contrast essays

 Beowulf, Sir Gawain and King Arthur - Three Heroes   The three heroes discussed here, Beowulf, Sir Gawain and King Arthur, are heroes for different drives. Beowulf, our earliest hero, is brave but his motivation is different than then otherwise two. To Sir Gawain personal honor and valor is what is important. King Arthur, Sir Gawains uncle, is naturally the quintessential king of the medieval period. Though all men to a certain extent conduct the same qualities, few are more pronounced than in the others. It is important to see how these qualities are central to their respective stories and how it helps (or hinders) them in their journeys. The greatest value of Beowulf is his courageousness, some may say bravado. There is no doubt that he is a great warrior. Beowulfs heroism belongs to a different time than that of King Arthur or Sir Gawain. For that reason his bragging about his prowess might seem decidedly unheroic. When he tells Unferth I count it true that I ha d more courage, More strength in swimming than any other man (514-15 (41) it might be interpreted in a poor way. What he is saying though is true. In addition, in order for him to succeed he must orally deliver his resume. Nevertheless, bragging aside, Beowulf is undoubtedly a brave man. When Beowulf sets out to kill Grendels mother he alone donned his armor for battle, Heeded non the danger... (1328-29 60). When his sword fails him he uses his physical strength On the might of his hand, as a man must do Who thinks to win in the welter of battle Enduring glory he fears not death (1420-23 62). Certainly he is in search of fame. Though this is true it must not discount his brave actions. He gains his fame truthfully by doing battle with menaces to society. He does not lie or manipulate to achieve fame, he uses what is rightfully his, his bravery. Beowulfs bravery differs from that of King Arthurs for several reasons. King Arthur by being king must be brave, to rule the state people must respect him. Beowulfs bravery carries the story. cardinal because it details his ascension in fame and secondly it also outlines his downfall. The honor of Sir Gawain is his best value, though he suffered a set-back. His honor is the catalyst for what happens through the rest of the poem.