Definition

Noun: - The legendary hero of an anonymous Old English epic poem: Beowulf is the titular protagonist of a major early medieval epic, celebrated for his superhuman strength and heroic deeds, including defeating the monster Grendel and a dragon.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The character of Beowulf embodies the Anglo-Saxon heroic ideal.
  • Scholars often analyze the themes of loyalty and mortality in Beowulf.

Advanced Usage

• As a metonym for the epic poem itself: The name "Beowulf" is commonly used to refer not only to the hero but also to the entire Old English epic poem.
  • We are studying the digressions in Beowulf this week.
• In cultural reference: Used to denote a figure of immense, almost mythical strength or heroism.
  • In the crisis, the firefighter was hailed as a modern Beowulf.

Variants and Related Words

• Beowulfian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the epic or its heroic style.
  • The saga has a distinctly Beowulfian tone.

Synonyms

• Epic hero
• Legendary warrior

Related Phrases and Idioms

• A Beowulf-like feat: An act requiring extraordinary strength or courage.
  • Rescuing all the climbers was a Beowulf-like feat.

Noun

1. the legendary hero of an anonymous Old English epic poem composed in the early 8th century; he slays a monster and becomes king but dies fighting a dragon