Question

In a response of two to three sentences, explain how the action described in the following lines helps show Beowulf as a hero. (20 points)

"This early discovered
The master of malice, that in middle-earth's regions,
'Neath the whole of the heavens, no hand-grapple greater
In any man else had he ever encountered"

Answer 1

The described action in the poem emphasizes Beowulf's heroism by showcasing his unmatched strength and the recognition of it by a formidable adversary, highlighting his valor and might as characteristics of an epic hero.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lines from the poem highlight Beowulf's heroism by describing an encounter where even the "master of malice," faced with Beowulf's formidable strength, recognizes that he has never met a more powerful adversary on Earth. This emphasizes Beowulf's exceptional physical prowess and courage, traits that are essential to the archetypal hero in epic literature. By showing the monster's realization, the poet underscores Beowulf's status as the epitome of a hero within the story, capable of facing challenges that no other man could withstand.

Answer 2

The answer to your question is he was planning mass murder here... he saw everyone sleeping soundly and wanted to kill them all in their sleep.