Final answer:
Beowulf is an epic hero due to his superhuman strength, heroic actions, and quest for enduring fame. His journey is marked by battles with monsters, including Grendel and a dragon, and his death while ensuring the safety of his people solidifies his heroic status.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beowulf, the main character of the epic poem of the same name, displays many characteristics of an epic hero. He exhibits superhuman strength and courage, as seen when he fights Grendel and Grendel's mother without the aid of weapons, relying solely on his physical prowess. As an epic hero, Beowulf also upholds the values of his society, showing loyalty to his king and people, and taking on the role of a leader who is responsible for the well-being of his warriors and kingdom.
Furthermore, Beowulf's journey includes a quest, which is a typical element in the life of an epic hero. He sets out across the sea to help the Danes, faces various monstrous challenges, and eventually returns to Geatland where he becomes king. His final act of heroism is confronting a dragon, a battle that ends in his own death but ensures the safety of his people. This selflessness and willingness to face death for the greater good are central traits of an epic hero.
Another characteristic is enduring fame, referenced throughout the poem as the concept of lof, or praise. Beowulf's actions assure him a lasting legacy, a key aspect of the hero's journey in ancient epics. Beowulf's character aligns closely with the heroic ideals of his time, making him a paragon of the epic hero archetype in literature.