Beowulf - An Anglo-Saxon HeroA hero is a person of distinguished courage who possesses exceptional qualities and abilities, who is admired for these aspects of his character and also admired for his courageous and noble deeds. An Anglo-Saxon hero is a person who possesses good leadership qualities, is able and willing to provide people with a sense of security, and is willing to face danger despite the risks they might experience. These Anglo-Saxon heroes were generally kings or thanes because they distinguished themselves from others by doing the good of the greater of each. This person must be willing to risk their own life for the sake of others. Beowulf has several heroic characteristics. The first of these characteristics is honor. Honor means demonstrating a sense of integrity in one's actions. When Beowulf went to the land of the Danes to kill Grendel, he did it not because he wanted money, but because he wanted to help the Geats. Beowulf felt like it was the right thing to do since he had been successful in past deeds which he proudly states in lines 321-322, where he says, “They had in remembrance my courage and my might. Many saw me emerge safely from the conflict. Beowulf did not expect any reward for his action, but rather simply to be able to “put another notch in his belt”. Another heroic characteristic that Beowulf possesses is bravery. Courage is being able to go against all odds and possibly risk your life in the process. An example of Beowulf showing bravery is when he goes to kill the dragon even though all his men abandon him. He realizes that the dragon is more powerful than him, but he still won't back down. In line 1493, he says "I will not run a foot from the monster", thus showing his true bravery in not giving up in the face of the strongest enemy. Another heroic characteristic of Beowulf is his strong sense of duty. This means that he is always devoted to his people, his king and their safety. An example of this again is when he goes to slay the dragon. He has no help, he realizes that the dragon is more powerful, and above all, he realizes that he will probably not return victorious from this battle..