Beowulf

Compare and Contrast of Beowulf and Sir Gawain

In the epic poems of Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, both heroes experience three critical trials that end up defining their characters and mold the rest of their lives. A major theme that encompasses these twp poems is the idea of honor, bravery, chivalry and virtue. The ideal warrior strived to achieve great honor and status through victories of battles. Beowulf is arguably the most courageous hero, summing up all of these qualities through all of his battles, including the one with Grendel, Grendel’s mother and the dragon. Furthermore, the focal point moved to the ethics of the knights of Arthur’s court, like virtue and chastity. Sir Gawain’s morals are tested in his meetings with the Green Knight, the Lady of Lord Bertilak and again meeting with the Green Knight at the Green Chapel. This essay will look deeper into the similarities and differences of each hero and their trials, as seen through the eyes of the reader. Both Beowulf and Sir Gawain are tested and prove their fearlessness.

The first trial that Beowulf encounters is the fight against Grendel. The disturbing image of Grendel leaves the reader scared for Beowulf and what makes them wonder what will happen to him when he finally faces him. However, Beowulf is not scared of facing his death, “When it comes to fighting, I count myself as dangerous any day as Grendel.” (Line 677-678) Even though the reader knows that Beowulf can’t die in his first battle they are still in fear of his destiny. Beowulf does not use any weapons nor wears an armor in his fight against Grendel, thus proving to us his ability to rely completely on his strength. As a rear, you feel that this was his most admirable battle. The battle against Grendel was a brutal one, where Beowulf tears off Grendel’s arm using only his strength, making this the first test of Beowulf. The legacy of Beowulf is eternal and remembered by all even after his death

On the other hand, we...