Beowulf and Batman: Exploring The Degrees of Heroism

Introduction

When we think of heroes, for the most part, we think about those who spare the world or defeat evil. A hero can be someone we look up to for example our parent. But does heroism consistently require the physical quality or are there other significant characteristics that characterize a hero? Though heroes are often known as the people from the D.C comics or Marvel, heroes can be defined in different ways. They could be known as people who are physically weak, however, have moral qualities or even a willingness to sacrifice. In this essay, we will examine two well-known heroes of the media - Beowulf and Batman.

Beowulf as a Stereotypical Hero

In modern-day, heroes are stereotypically known as the characters who save people. Beowulf is a stereotypical hero because in the passage, Beowulf is described as “the strongest of men alive that day”. Meaning that his willingness to help the king who needed help is also another trait of stereotypical heroes. Lastly, Beowulf was able to prevent Grendel from slaughtering Hrothgar’s men. This showed Beowulf’s faithfulness towards Hrothgar.

Frodo's Heroism in The Hobbit

On the other hand, heroism in the hobbit is depended on the act of thinking of other people more than yourself and also having integrity by having moral qualities rather than being distinguished with courage and brave deeds. Alternatively, the weakest characters are needed to show bravery and even if it means sacrifice. In the story, Frodo was afraid to face some of his fears during his adventure. Eventually, he became a hero because he was willing to risk his life to resist the evil.

Impact of Beowulf on Batman

The story Beowulf has significant impacts on the return of comic book heroes. There are some heroes that adapt the immediate strategy and defeat obstacles with strength. However, many heroes like the DC comic heroes act very different from Beowulf. I believe that it was inspired by the bravery and the idea of defeating the enemy or danger. Beowulf and Batman both have the brave nature of strength. In like manner, Beowulf defeats Grendel and Batman battles gangs demonstrating his strength and strategy. Similar qualities of both characters are having similar morals.

Conclusion

All in all, heroes make penances for other people, regardless of huge of small ones. As previously stated, heroes from different circumstances can be known with or without their strength but also without the talent. Most of the time, they are not ready for what comes in their way, but consistently settle on the right choices even in the most troublesome and confounding circumstances.   

Works Cited

1. Campbell, J. (1949). The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Bollingen Foundation.

2. Tolkien, J. R. R. (1937). The Hobbit. George Allen & Unwin.

3. Beowulf: A New Translation. (Translated by Heaney, S., 1999). W. W. Norton & Company.

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4. Batman: Year One. (Written by Miller, F., Illustrated by Mazzucchelli, D., 1988). DC Comics.