essential question #1

What are the social obligations of a hero?

A hero is expected to lead, whether through inspiring words or brave actions. Leadership is imperative in a hero. Heroes have the entire community lying on them, and if the hero doubts himself then the rest of the community will doubt him as well. Being a leader requires instilling hope in citizens and guiding everyone. As long as the hero is selfless in all his actions, then the community will suport his decisions and respect him as a person.

Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?

It apears as if Beowulf is well aware of his role of being a hero. When the audience is first introduced to Beowulf, they described him as having the reputation "for his great bravery" (195),and that "he was the strongest man alive, princely and powerful" (197-198). With a reputation as good as Beowulf's, it would be hard to believe that he has never heard these compliments about him. Also, it can be inferred that Beowulf knows that he is a hero by his willingness and eagerness to take on a difficult and challenging task without hesitation, such as going overseas to aid Hrothgar in defeating Grendel. His presence gives a heroic vine to Wulfgar, for Wulfgar only has good things to say about Beowulf to Hrothgar even though it was his first time meeting him: "do not give them no for answer. They, in their armor, seem altogether worthy of the highest esteem. I have no doubt of there leader's might" (364-367).