Beowulf as Epic Hero Epic heroes usually exemplify the character traits most admired in their societies, and Beowulf is no exception. “Beowulf” is set in Anglo-Saxon society, a time when war was rampant among the many peoples trying to conquer the different kingdoms of England. In this dangerous and violent time people lived in constant danger and danger. These conditions allowed only people of great courage to survive, and men of exceptional courage were admired by the population. These warriors fought for their leader and their tribe in exchange for treasure and protection. This relationship between the lord and his men was the basis of Anglo-Saxon society. The epic poem "Beowulf" is a perfect example of how this system worked in these troubled times. The warrior in Anglo-Saxon civilization had many duties to fulfill. He was obliged to respect and protect his lord, as well as defend his honor. Demonstrating personal worth was also very important in these times. Beowulf is the "follower of Higlac" and works to please his lord. He is afraid that "My lord Higlac / Might think less of me" (l 191-192) if he uses weapons in battle. Beowulf not only works to please his lord, but he also works to protect Hrothgar, the lord of the Danes. As the poem shows, when in his distant home Beowulf...(l 131) heard how Grendel filled the nights with horror and quickly commanded a boat to be fitted out, proclaiming that he would go to that famous king, he would sail across the sea to Hrothgar (l 134-137). Beowulf is doing everything he can, "across the sea" to help a lord to whom he is not obligated. He does this by choice, to show his respect for Hrothgar and to help the poor people threatened by Grendel.G...... middle of paper......s. Both Hrothgar and Beowulf filled their places as rulers adequately. As clearly indicated by the characters of Beowulf and Hrothgar, the ruler-warrior relationship during times of great danger was very important to the survival of the Anglo-Saxons. As long as this relationship remained stable, both ruler and warrior would remain protected, rewarded, and quite happy. Beowulf and Hrothgar, both men of great valor, were praised by all. This simple system established between warrior and leader was the basis of society at the time, and destroying this structure would surely destroy a tribe's chances of survival in this time of danger. Therefore, if Beowulf had not honored the lord of the Danes and Grendel had been allowed to live, Hrothgar and the Danes would surely have seen their end. This is perhaps why courage was so necessary in Anglo-Saxon society.