Many people recognize Beowulf as the hero of Anglo-Saxon times. Judging by his amazing resume of feats and strengths, this is not hard to believe. However, the epic, Beowulf, illustrates the great length the character had to go through to succeed. Beowulf did anything in his power to prevail, leading him to become selfish. A closer analysis of Beowulf's speech, thoughts, and actions will prove this thesis to be true.

Beowulf's speech proves that he would do anything to prevail, which explains his selfishness. Although defeated in some battles, Beowulf managed to do whatever it took to justify his loses to make himself look successful. This can be seen in his discussion with Unferth. "Then winter churned through the water, the waves ran you as they willed, and you struggled seven long nights to survive. And at the end victory was his, not yours (Lines...