What is a lesson we can you learn from reading about the battles and accomplishments of the characters in Beowulf?

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shake99's profile pic

Posted on

Beowulf is an example of an epic hero. One of the attributes of the epic hero is that he reflects the values of his society.

In Beowulf’s day, roughly the sixth century A.D., warfare was perceived differently than it generally is in modern times. Combat was considered a test of manhood and a route to glory and fame. To defeat an enemy, then plunder his home and enslave him, was not looked at as “inhumane” treatment, but rather the just desserts of battle.

Along with these attitudes was also the willingness to die in the pursuit of glory and fame. Although we might not agree with it today, a lesson that the Beowulf story sought to impart was the acceptance of one’s fate, even if it meant death, as long as it was done in the spirit of glory.

We see this in many places in the story, most notably near the end when Beowulf is older and about to fight the dragon that has been terrorizing his people. He is no longer the invincible warrior who defeated Grendel and Grendel’s mother early in the story, when he was young.  Now he is an old king. Beowulf is not deluded about this. He knows that his battle with the dragon might be his last, but he is willing to accept it:

. . . when he comes to me

I mean top stand, not run from his shooting

Flames, stand till fate decides

Which of us wins.

The lesson here is that one must fight for right and be willing accept the consequences, even it if means death. Beowulf refers to it as “fate,” which implies that there is a greater power at work, whose hand is in the outcome in some way.

litteacher8's profile pic

Posted on

One of the most important lessons we can learn from Beowulf is that our greatest strength comes from our mind, not from weapons.

Beowulf is a hero not just because he can wield a sword, but because he has humility and respect when he needs to, and he knows how to use his head.  Beowulf is able to go after monsters with his bare hands because he is self-assured and brave.  He does this because he has to. 

The wrathful warrior flung away that decorated, jewel-studded blade; steel-edged and stark, it lay upon the earth. He trusted in his strength and the grip of his mighty hand. (ch 22)

Clearly, the message here is that bravery is about more than facing danger.  It is about knowing where your strength lies and what you can use to your advantage, no matter what terrible situation you have gotten yourself into.


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