Beowulf
What does it mean to be good in the world described in Beowulf?
The way that good is described in the world of Beowulf, is as an individual who is: masculine, fearless and strong. The main character (i.e. Beowulf) is the classical depiction of this person. As he will continually, fight and slay the dragon that has been terrorizing the Danes. The way that he acts and carries himself throughout the story is the classic example of the all these elements of good combined into one. As a result, Beowulf is the ideal standard that all males in the community and society should be striving towards. Those who are able to do this will be seen as a hero, who will protect their community and family. ("Themes and Motifs," 2012)
What is the relationship between individual prowess and ethical virtue in Beowulf?
In the story, prowess and ethical virtues are integrated together. The way that this is taking place, is through the character Beowulf. As he is exhibiting, many of these characteristics based upon: his actions, the way he carries himself and his attitude. These different elements give the reader and the other characters a sense of trust in Beowulf. Once this takes place, is when he will use these attributes to show how the monster can be destroyed when they are utilized properly. For everyone, these basic values are the combination of the two different ideas and the individual characteristics they support. After, the monster has been killed, is when the reader can fully understand...
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