This document provides guidance on writing an essay about Beowulf fitting the definition of an epic hero. It instructs the reader to look at the writing prompt, decide on a thesis statement that answers what kind of epic hero Beowulf is and what his quest is. It then gives examples of different types of epic heroes and quests that could apply to Beowulf. The document outlines a five-paragraph essay structure to use that includes an introduction with thesis statement, three body paragraphs with examples supporting points, and a conclusion.

1. Writing an essay

2. Look at the writing prompt,
carefully, what is it asking for?
“What is the story of Beowulf
about and how he fits as a good
example of an epic hero. What
kind of epic hero is he and what
is his hero’s quest? THAT is your
thesis statement.

3. Using the writing prompt, decide on thesis
statement. In order to do that you must….

4. Use your notes and any related text:
How many of you took notes when you
were listening to my lecture on Epic
heroes?

5. In order to find that, you must first do this:
Look at the prompt. What does it say? Break it
down:
How does Beowulf fit as a good example of an
epic hero?

6. • Hero as warrior (Odysseus): A near god-like hero faces
physical challenges and external enemies
• The Superheroic: Exaggerates the normal proportions of
humanity; frequently has divine or supernatural origins. In
some sense, the superhero is one apart, someone who does
not quite belong, but who is nonetheless needed by society.
(Mythological heroes, Superman)
TYPES OF QUESTS
 The quest for vengeance
 The warrior’s journey to save his people
 The quest to rid the land of danger
TYPES OF HEROES

7. Thesis statement (mine):
“Beowulf fits the definition of a classic epic
hero as warrior whose quest was to rid the
land of danger”

8. Brainstorm. For example, use a web chart

9. Epic Warrior
Hero to rid
the land of
danger
DANGER in
land- people
need to be
saved.
Beowulf kills
Grendel, his
mom and later
the dragon
Kills mother
underwater-
supernatural
powers

10. How will you support your thesis? Begin to outline.
How long will your essay be? Five paragraph essay?
Or three paragraph?
What kind of an essay will you be writing?
Compare contrast
Deductive logic
Point-by-point analysis
Development of a central theme
Chronological history of an event

11. Five-paragraph essay using the point-by-point
structure.
1. Introduction- includes thesis statement
2. First paragraph supporting the thesis point one. Use
examples
3. Second paragraph stating second point.
4. Third body paragraph- third point.
5. Conclusion- wrap it up. End it like you began- state the
thesis.

12. 1. Introduction- include thesis statement- Beowulf is a classic epic warrior
hero whose quest was to rid the land of danger.
2. Although he was something of a glory seeker, he kills the evil monsters,
Grendel, his mother and the dragon. The narrative says that he was greatly
regarded for his bravery and skill in ridding the land of the scourge of
monsters. His quest was to rid land of danger, which he does by killing the
monsters.
3. Beowulf is a braggart. This is a common attribute of epic hero, (include a
citation) and was expected of men of great courage and ability.
4. Some question as to whether B is a superhero or just a warrior hero. True,
B has power, ie killing mom underwater, but warrior hero’s have god like
capabilities. Etc etc Discuss difference. Explain why warrior hero is more
suitable.
5. It is interesting to note that during B’s time, the most important attribute
was bravery and strength. Because of B’s bravery, ability to slay the
monsters and free the land of dangers these features fit the criteria for an
epic hero.

13. 3 paragraph essay using development of a
central theme
1. Introduction- includes thesis statement
2. Body supporting the thesis
3. Conclusion

14. Rewrite your Beowulf essay based on the
information I have given you in this PPT. Use
the five-paragraph model.
Writing Prompt:
How does Beowulf fits as a good example of an epic
hero? What kind of epic hero is he and what is his
hero’s quest? Support your statement by including
examples from the story.
Use your epic hero cheat sheet, your book and other
sources to research your writing.