The ancient Germanic race had a strict code of honor. Strength, courage and loyalty were sought after in knights; hospitality, generosity and political skills were looked for in a potential king. The title character in the great, epic poem Beowulf, exemplifies all of these traits and more over the course of his lifetime; specifically with major conflicts against "evil". In each of his three battles Beowulf matures, both with the knowledge of battle, and the wisdom of age. It is his transformation from young virile warrior, to aged, wise king.
When Beowulf was a young man, a thane to the gr…
