Being one of the oldest and by far most famous epic poems in English literature, “Beowulf” still remains an engaging and exciting story of magnificent proportions. Though the characters would, later on, become archetypal, they are still clearly defined and well-built, the leading one being a primary example. Though Beowulf’s motivation for slaying Grendel might seem obscure at first, the further exploration of his relationships with fellow warriors and the king will reveal that his idea of camaraderie and honor cause him to accept this undertaking.
Beowulf’s notion of honor clearly represents one of the core factors behind his courageous decision. Specifically, the author mentions that Beowulf is a descendant of the “sons of honour,” which defines his behavior and values (“Beowulf” 33). Therefore, the need to support his honor in the eyes of society can eb seen as the first major rationale.
The second reason encouraging Beowulf to accept the task is lined to his sense of responsibility. Even though he is met with a certain degree of hostility in the new environment, it is obvious that he cares for these people: “Shoulder to shoulder, we struggled on” (“Beowulf” 37). Thus, Beowulf’s empathy and good-hearted nature encourage him to accept the king’s offer and seek to fight the monster.
One could argue that the lack of a more profound motivation for slaying the dragon makes Beowulf a somewhat uninteresting character b present-day standard. Indeed, throughout the poem, the protagonist does not undergo major changes: “Thus Beowulf bore himself/With valour” (“Beowulf” 149). However, it is Beowulf’s consistency and adherence to his values that makes him so compelling and memorable.
Despite Beowulf’s acceptance of the king’s plea to kill the beast might seem as unexpected and predicated upon vanity, the further interactions between Beowulf and other characters, including his friends and enemies, shows that his motivation was defined by his idea of honor and integrity. Therefore, Beowulf’s character, while having a rather simplistic arc by modern standards, represents the essential characteristics of a warrior and a leader, with his sense of responsibility for the well-being of others and the need to maintain his honor defining his desire to fight.
Work Cited
Beowulf. Translated by Seamus Heaney, W.W Norton & Company, 2000.