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The theme of good and evil and their relationship in Beowulf is intriguing. Various interpretations exist regarding how the two interact, with the epic showcasing different depictions. While Beowulf is often seen as representing good and heroism, he also faces three main embodiments of evil. The interdependence between good and evil stood out to me, as they cannot exist separately.
Being able to defeat an evil figure like Grendel is what makes someone like Beowulf become famous and well-known. A hero is known for their courage and ability to overcome obstacles, with an evil figure often serving as the main obstacle that must be conquered.
These evil figures are often portrayed as immortal and are feared by the public. Without facing Grendel or any other type of evil, Beowulf would not have achieved the legendary status that he did. Ultimately, it is facing evil that truly defines someone as a hero.
The concept of evil is portrayed in this story through the three monsters and the act of killing, while the concept of good is embodied by Beowulf and comitatus.
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Across various folk tales, stories, and epics, the theme of good versus evil remains a common thread. This conflict serves to enrich the narrative, as audiences are more drawn to tales of heroes overcoming challenges rather than achieving success effortlessly. In Beowulf, the focus is on Beowulf's defense of the people against evil forces.
Beowulf courageously pledges to defeat Grendel, the demon who terrorizes the mead hall by attacking and killing many.
Despite the pleasant times enjoyed by the community, Grendel's evil actions disrupt their peace. The question remains: how do we differentiate between hero and villain?
The perception of heroism or villainy in individuals is shaped by various perspectives in real life. Whether someone is seen as a hero or a villain depends on the viewpoint and who benefits from the actions of the supposed "hero." For instance, Beowulf is revered as a hero by the Danes for ridding them of Grendel and ensuring their safety. On the other hand, Grendel's mother seeks revenge against Beowulf for killing her son, which could be considered heroic from her standpoint.
Although initially assumed, it is important to consider that Grendel's mother's actions were done in tribute to her son. This viewpoint suggests that Beowulf could potentially be seen as the antagonist in the narrative. While it may be hard to picture Grendel, his mother, and the dragon as anything but malevolent and monstrous, certain characters within the tale may not view them in this way. In the end, the line between good and evil can become unclear, questioning conventional ideas of protagonists and antagonists.
Good and evil are intertwined - without a hero, there would be no evil; without evil, there would be no hero. A true "hero" must overcome some form of evil to be recognized as such, as shown by Beowulf in his defeat of Grendel. This victory not only earns him the admiration of the Danes but also solidifies his status as a genuine hero.
Beowulf, Grendel, and the monsters he faces possess comparable physical strength and are perceived as highly evil and immortal entities. Beowulf's extraordinary power leads some to believe he also holds a hint of immortality. "The monster struggled against Beowulf, but Beowulf relied on his immense strength and the divine gifts bestowed upon him by God, seeking assistance from the Lord Almighty."
Beowulf triumphed over the enemy and defeated the demon (1269-1274) showcasing his supernatural abilities. The similarity between Beowulf and these monsters lies in their shared extraordinary powers, which can be used for either good or evil. Despite possessing comparable traits, it is their intentions that set Beowulf and the monsters apart from each other.
Uncle Ben's famous words in Spiderman highlight the correlation between great power and great responsibility. The ultimate question arises - who holds greater moral strength, the hero or the villain using their power for what they see as just? Beowulf's life is defined by greatness and honor, establishing him as a heroic figure until his final battle against a dragon where he meets his end defending his community.
To be a hero, one must be willing to take risks that may be deemed too perilous for the average person to contemplate. However, these risks do not always involve battling monsters. Heroes come in various forms; possessing superpowers or immense strength is not a prerequisite for heroism. In fact, most heroes are ordinary individuals. A hero need not slay demonic creatures or rescue multitudes; a hero is simply someone who is ready to effect change, regardless of its scale.
The Interplay of Good and Evil in Beowulf. (2016, Nov 12). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/the-relationship-between-good-and-evil-in-beowulf-essay
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