Essay | Beowulf: an Epic Poem

The English work, Beowulf, embodies the three characteristic traits of an epic poem. Its long narrative style, combined with the deeds of heroism make up its epic qualities. The portrayals of a society's customs also add to its epic fashion.

In true epic fashion, Beowulf is composed in a long narrative style. The poem's 3,200 lines were originally recited orally by scopps at feasts or celebrations. The scopps used its poetic style along with alliteration and kennings to remember the epic's entirety, and to discuss the deeds of the hero in depth.

Beowulf's heroism is demonstrated by his battles with his enemies. Over the course of the story Beowulf defeats three foes, Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a fire-breathing dragon. Grendel is an awful monster that lurks in the lake of Hrothgar's kingdom. Beowulf battles Grendel, and he successfully...
(read more)