Beowulf: What a Man

The idea of strength is a common theme in Beowulf and it is regularly referred to as the deciding factor for stature.  The reason Beowulf is considered a hero and is able to fight Grendel and his mother, is basically his ability to wield great power, with minimal skill.  That is why at times, he finds no need for his sword, and instead uses solely the power of his hands.
   
Previously, Beowulf had become known for his abilities when he defeated sea monsters and swam great lengths to save many.  For this very reason, after have being attacked over and over again, King Hrogthgar called upon Beowulf to fight off the monsters at Heorot.  Unferth is very jealous of Beowulf’s strength, but it is what sets the two characters apart.  Not only does his strength enable him to defeat these terrible monsters, it also allows Beowulf to summon great confidence and courage.  Again and again, his strength is referenced.  For instance, the poem makes a point to include the fact that Beowulf, alone, could only carry Grendel’s head, while four other men of Heorot could barely do it.  Or when he fights Grendel, it is highlighted that only the grip of Beowulf’s arms was able to rip Grendel’s arm off.  Also, when Beowulf is introduced, he is described as very, extremely powerful.  The next passage is only a partial segment of the detail of Beowulf’s strength during his introduction.

This was heard of at his home by one of Hygelac's followers,
 a good man among the Geats, Grendel's raidings
he was for main strength of all men foremost that trod the earth at that time of day;
 build and blood matched.

Lines like “He was for main strength of all men foremost” that exaggerate the strength of a human make the poem extraordinary.  And since the epic cannot be dissected for what is myth and what is history, if a person like Beowulf existed, then he is, obviously, greatly exaggerated in the poem. 

He also makes his own strength very known.  You could say that Beowulf brags a lot, but does so with good intentions and good reasons.  Before fighting Grendel, he announces he will kill him with solely his hands.  He also recounts many stories of his past, recalling himself as the “strongest swimmer.”  He uses his strength to make known his power and therefore, in return, he receives many rewards.  Although he has a big mouth, no one (such as Unferth) is able to speak up to him because no one has anything else to back themselves up.  Beowulf is the strongest of all and uses it greatly to his advantage.
   
It is also his strength that greatly defines Beowulf as a typical hero.  He stands for all that is good and just the basis of the book (the idea that he traveled great distances to unselfishly defeat a monster for the people’s good) exemplifies his courageous and honorable nature.  And although he is not modest whatsoever, Beowulf, time and time again, saves innocent people from evil. (509)