The Heroic Code Of The Epic Of Beowulf Essay - 939 Words

As we have learned, one of the most important features of the heroic code common among ancient epics is the preservation of the hero’s legacy. In Beowulf, a very large portion of the story narrates Beowulf’s accumulation of wealth, power, and most importantly fame through martial prowess and peerless leadership. This accumulation of glory in battle is crucial if the hero wishes to ensure that his name and legacy live on after he dies. This abruptly brings me to my main focus: Wiglaf. I believe Wiglaf’s purpose in the story is to perpetuate Beowulf’s legacy, and an in-depth analysis of his characteristics and actions can be used to support this idea. First, let’s examine Wiglaf’s character and identify the traits that make him a good candidate for preserving Beowulf’s legacy. Wiglaf isn’t introduced until the end of the epic, but he gives a very good first impression. He is moved by Beowulf’s struggle with the dragon (p. 1 70, ll. 2604–2608) and attempts to convince his comrades to help: â€Å"Let us go to him, / help our leader through the hot flame / and dread of the fire,† (p. 171, ll. 2648–2650). He has only just been introduced and already he is showing signs of empathy, courage, and initiative. He proves that he possesses all of these qualities when he actually jumps in and helps Beowulf: â€Å"Then he waded the dangerous reek and went / under the arms of his lord, saying only: ‘Go on, dear Beowulf, do everything / you said you would when you were still young / and vowed youShow MoreRelatedRole Of Value System In Beowulf1038 Words   |  5 Pagesexplained in the epic poem, but there are just a few differences. The value system is determined mostly by the heroic code, in which the main character in the epic poem, Beowulf, shows many of those characteristics of the heroic code that a warrior knight, of that time, followed. 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