Compare the heroic status of Beowulf and Daredevil.

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Furst

Kevin J. Furst

Mrs. Catrillo

Honors English 12

21 February 2004

The heroes of today have maintained the same general values of a hero that were established centuries ago. No matter what their background seems to be, the fearlessness and sacrifice they possess exceeds that of the average man. Heroes were often looked upon as a real, tangible being, but now they are more fictionalized in many comic books of the 20th century. The epic poem, Beowulf, and Daredevil, created by Stan Lee, are both superheroes of their times in more ways than one. Although written in two completely different time periods, the strength, devotion, and bravery they exemplify reflect the lifestyle of both the Anglo-Saxon and modern day societies.

The strength of a hero is not only measured by the size of their muscles, but also by their mentality. Beowulf has the strength of 30 men and swam to the bottom of the lake without coming up for air. "Beowulf, Higlac's/Follower and the strongest of the Geats–greater/And stronger than anyone anywhere is this world..." (Lines 194-196). His battle with nine sea monsters while swimming for seven days in the sea solidified his strength. The enormity of his strength could not be measured until he swam to the bottom of the bubbling lake to fight Grendel’s mother in the battle hall. Daredevil, a New York lawyer fights the criminals that he could not bring to justice by legal means in the courts. His blindness only increases his desire to wipe out evildoers. Daredevil and Beowulf believe they can take on a single villain or an entire army by themselves without the help of others. Their “super human” qualities allow them to battle whatever comes their way. Beowulf and Daredevil both fight for the justice of their people and nation. Beowulf does this by killing Grendel and his mother and the dragon

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Then he tested his strength

                        against mine,

                Hand to hand. His pouch hung

                At his side, a huge bag sewn

                From a dragon's skin, worked with the devil's

                Skill; it was closed by a marvelous clasp.

                The monster intended to take me, put me

                Inside, save me for another meal.

                He was bold and strong, but once I stood

                On my feet his strength was useless, and it

                        failed him. (2084-2092)

Beowulf took on the strength of 30 men to get back on his feet and bring the happiness and serenity Herot when he ended Grendel’s feasting. On the night ...

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