Journal 2: Beowulf as an archetype

Beowulf reminds me of many different heroes who all have one goal in mind: to save the lives of others. However, Beowulf especially reminds me of the hero of Gotham City, Batman. Feared by criminals and murders, Batman sacrifices more than any hero for the people of Gotham City.

 Batman gave up a life with the woman he loves to lead the life of a hero, but he did not do if for the glory. He did it because he knew that he had the power to help innocent people. Batman and Beowulf share one major characteristic. They both risk their lives to save innocent people. Countless times, Batman puts his life on the line to stop criminals. During the poem, there is a part of where Beowulf lists all of his major accomplishments, and most of them put him in a situation where he risked his life to help others. Both of them continue to prove themselves to the people they save. Beowulf has accomplished many amazing things, and people believe in him because of his triumphs. Many of the people of Gotham City may not like Batman, but they recognize that Batman does a good job at stopping evil.

However, they do have one different condition. Admired by the people, Beowulf is known as the greatest hero of all time; however, many of the people of Gotham City despise Batman and do not appreciate all he does for them. This does not stop Batman from helping the people; he takes their constant criticism with no negative reaction. Batman chooses to lead a double life. This proves that Batman does not want to be a hero for the glory because he could reveal his identity and take credit. Beowulf is a hero because he wants to help people, but he also revels in the glory he earns. Both Beowulf and Batman have the courage of a lion, and do not fear the villains they fight. Actually, their enemies are the ones who feel the fear of being caught by these heroes. Beowulf and Batman both put away the villains. Beowulf slew a dragon to save a threatened community, and Batman helps the police capture many criminals which they cannot catch alone. Beowulf and Batman are similar heroes because they both fight for the people.