The Analysis and Comparison of the Themes of Beowulf,...

An epic is best described by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as a long narrative poem in elevated style recounting the deeds of a legendary or historical hero. Epics like Beowulf and The Odyssey are perfect examples of this definition; they are each centered on the deeds and triumphs of their heroes, Beowulf and Odysseus. All epics are similar in a way that they are made up of elements. One major element of the epic is its themes. In all epics, the themes are what make and mold these narrative poems, they descriptively outline the story. Most epics, like Beowulf and The Odyssey, have themes like battles, homecoming, identity, recognition etc. Through themes like these, morals, values and traditions relating to the main†¦show more content†¦Although, his wife Penelope did not know until he turns back to his original being. Also, recognition is gained when Telemachus doubts that Odysseus is his father. But, Odysseus eventually persuades Telemachus to accept him as his father. As stated before, in Homers epic, an identity cannot be claimed until recognition of that identity from others is claimed first. Like The Odyssey, Beowulf is also a legendary epic that includes the themes identity, homecoming, battles and recognition as its primary focus. In Beowulf, the themes homecoming and recognition are very closely related. When Beowulf returns to Geatland, he is greatly rewarded for his works. He reunites with King Hygelac and tells of his great adventures. Recognition is shown by Beowulf giving most of his treasure received to the King, and in return is awarded with treasure of his home from King Hygelac. Beowulf was praised and glorified for his homecoming(s) to Geatland and his return from his victories over Grendel and his mother. He wasrecognized as a true hero, an Anglo-Saxon hero to be exact. In Beowulf, Kingdoms acknowledged Beowulf by showering him with treasures, feasts and celebrations. Like God, to the Geats and Danes, he was worthy of all praises. He earned his recognition. Thats what the homecoming of a hero is all about, heroes being rewarded for their works and receiving the uttermostShow MoreRelatedAmerican Literature11652 Words   |  47 PagesHistorical Context: ï‚ · Civil War brings demand for a truer type of literature that does not idealize people or places Naturalism period of American Literature - 1880-1900 Naturalism is a sub-genre ofrealism Content: ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · dominant themes: survival fate violence taboo nature is an indifferent force acting on humans brute within each individual is comprised of strong and warring emotions such as greed, power, and fight for survival in an amoral, indifferent world. Genre/Style: