Comparison of The Heroes: Beowulf and Lyndon B. Johnson

Introduction

The definition of a hero is someone who is recognized for their endless acts of bravery, selflessness, courage, and strength in character. Ask a young child who they recognize as heroes in their life, and common responses are usually moms, cops, firefighters, etc. Throughout this essay, the reader will see a comparison and contrast between Beowulf and Lyndon B. Johnson. One hero acted out of love for the people, while the other pursued self-fame and glory. Many people seem to believe that a hero is someone who is seen on the news every day or someone who is recognized worldwide. Lyndon B. Johnson wasn’t that type of hero. He was a man who made the right decisions throughout his life and presidency. Johnson was a man who gave others, especially African Americans and those who suffered from poverty, a second chance at life.

Johnson's Legacy

Johnson was a huge advocate for the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was a pivotal moment in American history. The Civil Rights Act allowed African American men the right to vote, helping to end discrimination against them at the polls. He helped pave the way for future generations of minorities and gave them a voice. Johnson, along with many other activists, fought for and passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This act outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. In addition to these accomplishments, Johnson also made significant strides in addressing poverty in America. He developed two major programs that are still widely used in the U.S. today: Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid is a program that helps people with limited financial resources pay for healthcare, while Medicare provides health insurance to those over the age of 65 and certain younger individuals with disabilities. With these two programs, Johnson gave less fortunate Americans a sense of hope. All of these acts were key components of the "Great Society." LBJ was so dedicated to the Great Society and passing legislation that he would often ignore his own health and even his family (Caro, 2002).

Beowulf's Heroic Feats

Beowulf, the hero of the epic, travels from his kingdom to the kingdom of Denmark. He comes to save them from the local monster, Grendel, who has been terrorizing them for twelve years. “Twelve winters of grief for Hrothgar, king of the Danes, sorrow heaped at his door by hell-forged hands. His misery leaped the seas, was told and sung in all men's ears” (Heaney, 1999, lines 147-151). Beowulf felt a need to give the man, Hrothgar, to whom he owed a family debt, a peaceful life. He wanted to restore peace to Denmark. Furthermore, Beowulf's purpose was to "Go big or go home," meaning he was more than willing to put his life at risk (demonstrating bravery and courage) to restore the peace that was taken away by Grendel. “When we crossed the sea, my comrades and I, I already knew that all my purpose was this: to win the goodwill of your people or die in battle, pressed in Grendel's fierce grip. Let me live in greatness and courage, or here in this hall welcome my death!” (Heaney, 1999, lines 632-638). Beowulf is not portrayed as a man who runs away from death or battle. He faces them head-on and always manages to overcome. Although Beowulf is idolized as a heroic figure, he shows his conceited nature by seeking glory only for himself and not giving credit to those who have aided him in battle. “No one else could do what I mean to do here, no man but me could help to defeat this monster” (Heaney, 1999, lines 682-686). Beowulf holds himself higher than those around him, thus bringing glory to his name.

Modern Heroism vs. Ancient Heroism

Beowulf may possess all the qualities of an Anglo-Saxon hero, but he is unlike modern-day heroes. A hero, like Beowulf, not only needs to be physically outstanding but also needs to have integrity, moral values, and the ability to act without thinking of personal gain. This is something Beowulf struggles to achieve. Even when he decapitated the already dead Grendel, he felt the need to provide visible proof, adding more fuel to his arsenal of boasts. Unlike Beowulf, Johnson acted out of the kindness of his heart. He wanted the world to be filled with less hate and did everything for the benefit of others. Johnson's actions were not driven by a desire for personal glory but by a genuine concern for the well-being of others. In conclusion, we admire a person who strives for a peaceful environment, someone who does so without harming others. Today, we seek someone who is willing to calmly solve problems. Nobleness and honor are not associated with war. Both Beowulf and LBJ freed their people from something that had brought darkness upon them for many years, but their intentions were different. One sought fame and glory, while the other sought freedom and demonstrated humility.

Conclusion

In examining both Beowulf and Lyndon B. Johnson, we see two figures who, in their unique ways, brought light to their respective societies. While Beowulf's heroism was marked by physical prowess and a quest for personal glory, Johnson's heroism lay in his dedication to civil rights and his relentless effort to create a more equitable society. Both stories teach us that heroism can take many forms and that true heroes are those who strive to make a lasting positive impact on the world around them.

References:

Caro, R. A. (2002). *Master of the Senate: The Years of Lyndon Johnson*. Alfred A. Knopf.

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