Beowulf Essay

What exactly is a hero? Must a hero always be one who fights ? I say not, characteristics of a hero have evolved over time. Starting off as men in armor, warriors; to men who didn't take action but spoke on wisdom such as Gandi. Later following with superhero's such as Batman or Spiderman. Leading to a romantic stage of hero's and soon involving women as hero's as well.
Take Spiderman and Beowulf as an example. Although both viewed as hero's, both have their differences. Beowulf is a hero in earlier time. Characterized as a warrior of the time. He battles for the protection of others such as any other hero. But also does so with a sense of revenge and confidence . In my opinion doing it as a source of seeking some attention. He is viewed as a magnificently strong man, who dares to confront anyone and anything.
On the other hand Spiderman is given his powers, he is far from normal. This is an example of the idea of a hero transforming. Transformation from a natural powered person vs. a hero who is given extremely powerful powers. Beowulf faces more of a external conflict. Having to focus on Grendel, his mother and later the dragon. It continues as a constant battle to protect. Beowulf is the one who walks himself into the situation. Spiderman on the other hand is bit, later having to struggle internal conflicts. Unsure of himself and his abilities, causing him to step out of his element. Putting his strength into positive action.
The time period in which both hero's were glorified in are evident. Beowulf was in the earlier time. When men were obligated to be a form of protection and strength. Weakness was not an option in the earlier days. The story plot itself gives off the idea of older plots. Spiderman is seen in the era where superhero's and comics were finding it's way into the literature world. It's plot being the typical, Superhero minding it's own business when all of a sudden he sees a citizen in danger.
It's obvious to say both are hero's no doubt about that. But both face differenced because of the time era both were publicized.