The Evolution Of The Hero Figure

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The Evolution of the Hero Figure
Many hero figures have existed in different historical times. These figures impact various aspects of life in different ways. For instance, while some impact contributes to the political development of the society, others contribute socially, and culturally. From the poem ‘Beowulf,’ Beowulf is presented as a popular, legendary, strong Geatish hero (Heaney 13). From his name Beowulf which was coined from “bee-wolf,” it is clear that Beowulf was fearless and he helped his people win many wars, and his region remains peaceful.
Politically, Beowulf the son of a former fierce warrior called Ecgtheow helped the people of Geatland remain harmonious as he ensured victory in all battles that they fought. For instance, while on their journey to Zealand, Beowulf together with his military of 14 men, managed to fight the Grendel warriors who attacked them. On the same note, during the historic battle against Frank, Beowulf helped in winning the war. Beowulf became the King after winning the Swedish invasion. He was crowned the king, and he successfully ruled the people of Geatland for 50 years before dying.
It is inarguable that by ensuring victory, Beowulf helped the Geats maintain harmonious coexistence. This means that this hero contributed to the social development of the people. With peace in the Geatland, the people were able to proceed with their daily activities. This promoted development a factor which ensured stability in Geatland (Heaney 124).

Culturally, Beowulf managed to uphold the reputation of Geatland since other warriors who were before him were fierce and always ensured victory.
Comparison of Beowulf with Achilles
Achilles was fierce Greek hero who was a notable figure of the Trojan War. Just like Beowulf and Germanicus, this Greek warrior managed to help the people politically. He led a war which helped slay Hector, the great hero of Trojan. Just like the others, Achilles on the forefront in all wars of the Greek during his time. His bravery, strength, honors, as well as determination, makes him resemble Beowulf and this fact tie them to their historical context.
Comparison of Beowulf with Germanicus Germanicus and Beowulf resemble in the fact that this hero was a strong commander ensured political stability in his empire. As the head of the Roman military, Germanicus ensured that Emperor’s Tiberius reign between 15 BCE and 19 CE was a success. He had a well-trained army which helped the people become victorious many wars such as the Teutoburg battle. Germanicus is different from Achilles and Beowulf because Achilles father was the king of northern Greece (Heaney 372). As such, Achilles was in some instances helped by his parents. For instance, his parents tried to protect him by using the power of the gods before he went to wars. On the same note, while Achilles and Beowulf had some supernatural powers, Germanicus was fully human.
From the evolution of these heroes, Achilles appear to be more different from the other two heroes. Even though he resembles them in helping to build a strong political status as well as social impact to his empire, he benefits from his parents and the fact that he has supernatural powers. On the other hand, Germanicus and Beowulf concur in many aspects (Heaney 276). For instance, they single-handedly lead their wars, and as the leader of their militaries, they ensure that they protect their kings and kingdom.
Work Cited
Heaney, Seamus. Beowulf: An Illustrated Edition. WW Norton & Company, 2008.pp:1-3180