The Heroic Similarities of JFK and Beowulf
The Heroic Similarities of JFK and BeowulfA Hero is defined as, “ A man admired for his achievements and noble qualities.” (Marriam-Webster Dictionary, 1999) It’s the best word to describe mythological character Beowulf, and 35th U.S. President John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Beowulf was a honorable man, who reigned as kind and the strongest warrior throughout land. J.F.K. charmed the U.S. with wit, kindness, and bravery. John F. Kennedy and Beowulf had similar heroic qualities.
Beowulf and Kennedy can both be noted for various brave act throughout their lives.
Beowulf was looked upon as the greatest warrior of his people, the Storm-Geats. His gratitude led him to help the King of Storm-Danes and his people. Beowulf was asked to rid the Storm-Daness of Grendal, and evil monster. Grendel had been attacking the Mead Hall, which the king had built. However, his evil deeds were unstoppable. Beowulf was put in command of killing Grendel. Beowulf’s extensive bravery lead him to kill Grendel single-handly. That was not the end of the Storm-Danes’ trouble. Grendel’s mom grew upset over her son’s death. She acted upon it and killed the King’s best friend. Beowulf was called upon. “Once again Beowulf, only you can help us.” (pg. 277) Beowulf agreed to challenge Grendel’s mom. However, his life near ended during the battle. Fortunately fate was on Beowulf’s side and he slaid the dreaded monster. Beowulf provided peace to the land of the Spear-Danes.
As did Beowulf, John Kennedy displayed excessive bravery, although not in any sort of battle. Kennedy had been excepted to the Navy, after being rejected several times for health problems.(Conover Hunter, J.F.K. for a New Generation, pg. 25) Kennedy was assigned head of a torpedo boat, which was stationed near the Solomon Islands. On a cold March night in 1943, his boat was sunk by a Japanese destroyer. John, who had been wounded, swam another wounded man three miles in sea water. They finally found rest on a piece of wood. Kennedy again risked his life, by swimming in the dangerous water. Finally, John was rescued days later. The incident would cause several health problems for John later in life. For his heroism John received a Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal. (Conover Hunter, J.F.K. for a New Generation, pg. 26)
J.F.K. and Beowulf both risked their lives for others, gaining them respect. This resulted in superiority.
In reward of Beowulf’s victories over Grendel and Grendel’s mom, he was heavily rewarded. He was not only a famous warrior, but he lived in riches. He was loathed in valuable by king of the Spear-Danes, also by the king of the Storm-Geats. “Hgelac awarded Beowulf a golden sword that was the best of treasures among the Storm-Geats, a hall, a prince’s high seat, and a very large estate. Beawulf was now the most highly honored of men.” (pg.281). Sometime later, Beowulf was crowned king of the Storm-Geats. He now...
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