Beowulf and Illiad Essay Example for Free

Beowulf and Illiad EssayStories like Beowulf and the Iliad seem hard to believe, far-fetched, and exaggerated even though they can relate to a cultures past. Even so, both stories have great examples of fighting, victory, and glory. Now though I may gather my perfect glory (Line 64 Homer) This quote helps show the desire Achilles has for glory. Ive never k like a shotn fear, as a youth I fought in endless battles. I am old, now, but I volition fight again, seek fame still, if the dragon hiding in his tower dares to face me. (Line 607-611 Beowulf Poet)This quote shows Beowulf has a similar desire for fame and glory, on with the confidence to be victorious. Both relate the tales of a hero, and as we follow them, we hold back close them in the process. The story of Beowulf seems too well to be true in a sense. As you read, you notice that every woman is beautiful, every warrior is good and every cause is worth risking life and outgrowth for. What is realistic is that ever y human macrocosm wants to be loved and accepted while also being the hero. King Hrothgar is a fatherly example that deserves the love that Beowulf has for him. Hail, Hrothgar My youth have been filled with glory.Now Grendels name has echoed in our land Sailors have brought us stories of Herot, the bestWhen the moon hangs in skies the sun had lit, joyous and life fleeing together. (Line 140-148 Beowulf Poet) This quote shows the fondness that the king and Beowulf have for each other, and it shows a comparison of light and life. In the case of Achilles in the Iliad, everything is a bit more believable. The theme of life and death is brought to the readers attention when Patroclus is killed.As a result, Hector is also killed because of Patrocluss death. Achilles isnt perfect, along with other characters such as Hector and King Agmemmon. These faults make this story more realistic and believable, while also adding law to the story. Bad decisions are made, such as Achilles anyowin g his good whiz, Patroclus, to enter battle and be killed. My greatest friend is gone Patroclus, comrade in my arms, whom I held dear above all others- dear as myself now gone, lost Hector cut him d experience, despoiled him of my own arms, massive and fine, a wonder in all mans eyes. (Line 13-18 Homer) In this quote is an example of life and death and how it made Achilles wants revenge on Hector.This also gives Achilles a type of power to choose whether to take Hectors life. Beowulf is humble, and although he has the reputation of a hero more than Achilles, he does not see his own esteem or his own significance. Achilles, on the other hand, could not be more proud. His awareness and consideration of his own skills and his own value are an obvious difference to the humility and mildness of Beowulf. Do not attempt to keep me from the fight, though you love me you cannot make me listen. (Line 70 Beowulf Poet)This quote shows an example of Achilles attitude toward himself and othe rs when it comes to a fight. This also shows how Beowulf has more good in him then Achilles. Beowulf having a personality with great goodness, makes the decision to fight the greatest evil (Grendel) with save his hands. My hands alone shall fight for me, struggle for life against the monster God must decide who lead be given to deaths cold grip. (Line 172-175 Beowulf Poet)This quote supports Beowulfs fight against evil, and how the fight will determine life and death. Beowulf and the Iliad are stories of great heroes. They take us through their stories and battles while teaching the reader about them along the way. The Iliad is easier to believe, while Beowulf seems too good to be true. Both stories relate to the cultures past and teach us about each character. Beowulf and the Iliad battle through evil and relate to each other through life and death.