Beowulf

Beowulf is an Anglo-Saxon epic poem, which portrays a story of an epic hero destined to defeat a ferocious monster in order to save a kingdom from destruction and death. "The role of monsters underscores the poet's emphasis on the theme of good versus evil" (Overview). There are many symbols that represent good in Beowulf. Beowulf himself is a symbol of good in this epic. Beowulf is tamed and civilized which are the characteristics of goodness and purity. Beowulf takes it upon himself to announce several great deeds that he will perform to help countries in need. One of these deeds is his offer to King Hrothgar, in which he proposes to slay Grendel. Beowulf is pure and shows this before his battle when he removes his armor, and vows not to use a weapon to defeat Grendel. Defeating Grendel, he shows that man, without armor and weapons, can defeat evil in any form including that of his enemy Grendel. This serves as a symbol of Beowulf's goodness. After defeating Grendel this shows a sign of life to the town.

Another selfless act Beowulf states is that he will slay Grendel's mother. They began to fight. She clawed at his mail shirt, but it did not affect him. The mail shirt was too strong for her to penetrate her fierce claw through. They fought and wrestled for quite some time. They wore each other out, she would try to tear him apart, but the mail shirt stayed sturdy and prevailed. After killing her Beowulf walked along, and found Grendel's body. He decided to take his head back and celebrate his victory. He cut off the head and, heavy as it was, made his way back to his people, and they all celebrated the defeat of the hideous monsters.

After Beowulf becomes king in Geatland, he shows his great ability once more