Human Weakness

Beowulf and Sir Gawain embody the heroic determination of characters acting in the name of glory and of duty and loyalty to the topic data vows.

Despite the fact that these characters represent two quite different literary trends (heroic epic and romance), they have a huge array of features in common.

Beowulf is the representative of the heroic epic. This character is the protagonist of the eponymous epic and holds this position for a reason. Beowulf is a true hero who distinguished valor and courage. He takes many trials and battles in which he always proves that it is not for nothing that he is the greatest hero. He is always ready to fight for a just cause and to help those in need. The sense of duty is very important for Beowulf; he is true to his word and is willing to do his duty to his country.

Sir Gawain – one of the great knights of the round table. This character is famous for his valor and honor. In some ways, he can be considered as canonical character of romance. He is just and fearless. An important role for Sir Gawain is played be responsibility before the king. After giving the oath of allegiance, he is always ready to serve his ruler. Also, there is amazing stamina and willpower of this knight. Nothing can force him to withdraw from his word and break a promise. His resistance manifests itself in the way he resists the temptations presented in the form of a green castle mistress. Thus, we can say that Sir Gawain is the embodiment of the image, the canonical knight.

As we can see, the characters have a lot of similar characteristics, such as honor, courage, justice and a sense of duty. But this is only one part of their similarity, the one that shows their positive side. It is worth noting that Beowulf and Sir Gawain are similar not only in their good displays, but also in their weaknesses.

Beowulf gives in to temptation and takes the cursed treasure. Because he could not cope with his wishes, the protagonist subsequently pays life.

Sir Gawain also could not resist the temptation. Located in Green Castle, he steadfastly resisted the temptation for three days, but even so he could not resist and took a gift from the hostess.

Thus, we see that Beowulf and Sir Gawain are very similar. Both of these characters are a perfect personification of a hero who is always ready to defend his ideals and protect the disadvantaged. At first glance, it seems that these characters, like the gods, are absolutely perfect. But as we see in the latter Beowulf and Sir Gawain are not alien to human weakness.