Sir Gawain And Beowulf example essay topic

"My body, but for your blood, is barren of worth; And tis I have asked for this folly not fit for a King". These are the words of a true hero. One who is willing to sacrifice his own existence for the life of another. These are the words and actions of Sir Gawain, a character from the beloved British tale, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Beowulf, another character from an ancient British epic entitled, Beowulf, is also portrayed as a"hero".

But Beowulf's heroism factor does not even compare to Sir Gawain's. The difference between Beowulf and Sir Gawain, is that Sir Gawain is a real hero, and Beowulf just thinks he is. The two heroes can be compared in many ways. A major comparison would be their physical characteristics.

Beowulf is "mighty, the strongest man ever". Sir Gawain is " honorable, a brave and true knight". Beowulf only happens to be strong on the outside. But Sir Gawain, along with his muscular build, contains a strong and stable heart.

Sir Gawain and Beowulf's morals and values can not be compared so easily, though. The two heroes' ethics contrast each other greatly. Beowulf seems to have little morals that he lives by. His pride in himself and loyalty to his country are surely characteristics of a hero, but it seems throughout the whole epic poem he boasts about how wonderful he is, which was one of the main reasons I did not like him. Sir Gawain never shows a sign of arrogance, only selflessness, honesty, and his loyalty to the code of Chivalry. Beowulf almost seems barbaric, going out to conquer the monster so he can add to his list of over-exaggerated achievements.

Sir Gawain sticks to his word, and seeks out the Green Knight as promised, like a true hero would. There is no doubt that Beowulf has the history and accomplishments of a hero. He " drove five giants into chains", and defeated the man-eating swamp creature, Grendel. Buti n Beowulf's story there is not one line in which he shows the strengths of his own heart. Of course we can argue this against Sir Gawain, saying that he did not give the green girdle to his host as he promised. But Sir Gawain did refuse to accept the host's wife, and he does give the dagger to his host also.

Sir Gawain also kept true to his vow to find the Green Knight and receive his beheading. Both Sir Gawain and Beowulf have fights they have won, but Sir Gawain has fears that he overcame to keep his promise. Both Beowulf and Sir Gawain were terrific warriors, and both of their stories were entertaining. But Sir Gawain's story stuck out due to it's truth, and the role model it presented.

Beowulf's story just seemed like any children's tale with a clich'e hero. Sir Gawain's actions, words, and honor have made him a greater hero than Beowulf could ever have tried to be.