Beowulf Essay:
Characteristics of the Archetypical Hero
Instructions:
1. You will write a five to ten paragraph essay.
2. Organize your essay properly
3. Follow steps in the writing process by using graphic organizers.
4. Type or write your final drat according to the writing standards
enclosed
5. Use class time wisely and turn your essay in on time.
Characteristics of an Epic Hero
An Epic hero:
1. is significant and glorified
2. is on a quest
3. has superior or superhuman strength, intelligence, and/or courage
4. is ethical
5. risks death for the glory or for the greater of society
6. is a strong and responsible leader
7. performs brave deeds
8. reflects the ideals of a particular society
Writing Prompt
Write an essay explaining how Beowulf demonstrates the characteristics of
an epic hero. Choose three to eight characteristics. Give specific examples
from the three battle scenes: The Battle With Grendel, the Battle With
Grendel’s Mother, and the Battle With the Dragon.
Prewriting: Fill in the boxes below. (6 Points)
P
Purpose: describe, persuade, inform,
narrate, or entertain
A
Audience: Who will read your essay
S
S
Topic: what is the subject? Think of
your thesis statement
Structure: poem, letter, essay, etc.
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