Beowulf Heroic Man The epic poem Beowulf describes the most heroic man of the Anglo-Saxon era. The hero, Beowulf, is a seemingly invincible person possessing all the extraordinary traits required of a hero. He is able to use his superhuman physical strength and courage to put his people before himself. He encounters hideous monsters and the most ferocious beasts but he never fears the threat of death. His leadership skills are superb and he is even capable of bragging about all his accomplishments. Beowulf is the ultimate epic hero who risks his life countless times for immortal glory and the good of others. Beowulf is a hero in the eyes of his fellow men thanks to his astonishing physical strength. He fought in many battles and returned victorious from all but the last. In his argument with Unferth, Beowulf explains why he "lost" a simple swimming match with his young opponent Brecca. Not only had Beowulf been swimming for seven nights, but he had also stopped to kill nine sea creatures in the depths of the ocean. Beowulf is also strong enough to kill the monster Grendel, who has been terrorizing the Danes for twelve years, with his bare hands by ripping off his arm. When Beowulf fights Grendel's mother, who seeks revenge for her son's death, he is able to kill her by cutting the monster's neck with a giant sword that can only be lifted by someone as strong as Beowulf . When he cuts off her head, he easily carries it from the ocean, but it takes four men to lift it and return it to Herot's mead. This strength is a key trait of Beowulf's heroism. Another heroic trait of Beowulf is his ability to put the well-being of his people before his own. Beowulf's uncle is the king of the Geats, so he is sent as an emissary to help rid the Danes of the evil Grendel. Beowulf risks his own life for the Danes, without asking anyone for help. He is aware of the dangers but has no fear for his own life. After serving his people as king of the Geats for fifty years, Beowulf goes into battle one last time to fight a horrible dragon that frightens all his people. Beowulf is old and tired but he defeats the dragon to protect his people. Even in death, he wanted such safe security for the Geats, so a large lighthouse is built in order to help people find their way back from the sea. Beowulf's most heroic trait is that he did not not afraid to die. He always explains his death wishes before going into battle and requests that all goods be delivered to his people. "And if death takes me, send the hammered mail of my armor to Higlac, return the inheritance I had from Hrehtel and Wayland. Destiny will unfold as it must! (18)" He is conscious of the heroic paradox; he will be glorified in life or death for his actions. He knows that when he fights an enemy like Grendel or Grendel's mother, he will achieve immortality as the winner or loser. "When my comrades and I crossed the sea, I already knew that my goal was: win the goodwill of your people or die in battle, pressed under Grendel's fierce grip. Let me live in the greatness and courage, or here, in this hall, welcome my death! (22)" Even with the enormous confidence that Beowulf possesses, he understands that Fate or the Wyrd will work its magic no matter what and that he could be killed at any time in his life. He faces this reality by showing no fear and preparing for a positive or fatal outcome. Beowulf is the perfect example of an epic hero. His bravery and strength surpass all mortal men; loyalty and the ability to think for oneself.