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How Did Beowulf Choose To Be A King

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If the average person had the choice to be a hero or king what would they choose? In the epic poem Beowulf written by Seamus Heaney, the main character is faced with many challenges and tribulations. He is faced with the tough decision to either be a king or hero. All throughout the story Beowulf chooses to be the hero over the king, why is this? What makes being the hero so great? With this being the character of beowulf is shown. He would rather be a legend for the people than a leader who has power of the people. With this being the respect, honor and love Beowulf has for the people and the land he lives on is displayed.
In the epic poem beowulf is offered the the throne many times but denies taking it until he has no choice. In the poem it says, “ … there was no way the weekend nation could get Beowulf to given and agree to be elevated over Heardred as his lord or to take office of his kingship.” Beowulf would rather have lower status and fight with his people supporting the crown without carrying. He would rather have respect of the people over power over them. When beowulf would go into a battle and come out the victor he would recieve praise and honor from the people of the town he just saved. The honor and respect he got with this is what kept beowulf from the throne. …show more content…

In his day, he was the mightiest man on earth, high-born and powerful.” This is the description of Beowulf from the very beginning of this epic poem. Right from the start the honor and power of beowulf is shown and there is no question that he will not be a great hero. When Beowulf would show up to a town and express that he was there to save them from the tribulation they are in, relief would be felt by all. They finally had a man brave enough, powerful enough, and courageous enough to face the mighty beast of the land. He would always be the mightiest hero of that time, whether he was a king or

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