The Dragon In Beowulf Symbolizes

Dragons
Angel Rosado

Dragons announced throughout medieval folklore. They represent evil that is challenged past heroes and for the almost part they are the stories. In Beowulf, the dragon is portrayed equally an evil creature that dislikes mankind especially those who dare intrude on its hoard or steal from it. The dragon is very much feared in the story of Beowulf. Like most dragons in Western folklore, in Beowulf, the dragon is depicted every bit a huge, reptile-like beast with enormous claws and bat-like wings. Most importantly, dragons are frequently said to have with flames coming out of their mouths, causing major damage to annihilation that may stand in their way. The dragon in Beowulf has all of these characteristics which put fearfulness and horror into the hearts of many. At the end, nonetheless, the dragon meets its doom.

�The hoard-guard waited restless until evening came; then the barrow-keeper was in rage: he would requite that precious drinking cup with vengeful burn down.� (39) In the context of Beowulf, the dragon�south fury is intense when a stranger enters the dragon�s hoard and escapes with one of the dragon�s cups. The dragon�s reaction is to get revenge. Considering one of its precious treasures has been stolen, the dragon decides to burn down the homes of the local villagers. Destroyed in this attack is Beowulf�due south dwelling house likewise: �Because of that the state of war-male monarch, the lord of the Weather-Geats, devised penalty for him.� (39) When Beowulf becomes aware of the burning of his hall, he decides to have revenge on the dragon and for the last time boasts about how he volition seek boxing and perform a deed of fame: �In my youth I engaged in many wars. Old guardian of the people, I shall still seek battle, perform a act of fame, if the evil-doer will come up to me out of the earth-hall.� (42)

With the aid of Wiglaf, who is Beowulf�s trusted kinsman, Beowulf defeats the dragon. Beowulf receives a substantial number of wounds in the battle. The terminal accident, which is described as a cut through the centre of the worm, destroys the dragon for proficient (45,46): �The king himself then nevertheless controlled his senses, drew the battle-knife, biting and war-sharp, that he wore on his mail-shirt: the protector of the Weather-Geats cut the worm through the middle.� (45,46) Unfortunately, Beowulf�south life is taken as a result of his struggle with the dragon, who bites Beowulf in the neck. Beowulf, once a triumphant and strong warrior, is unable to survive his wounds.

According to ancient medieval folklore, dragons are known for their superior forcefulness and magical abilities. Dragons protect their hoard because it is said that they hold vast amounts of wealth at that place. This wealth consists of coins, gems, jewels, and items with magical abilities and strengths (Holz, Bartusik, Melendez). In Beowulf, the dragon�due south hoard is invaded and one of its cups is taken. As a result, the dragon decides to avenge itself on the local villagers and Beowulf. The cup was quite of import to the dragon. To add together to the dragon�s fury, his hoard was entered equally he slept which was to remain a secret place (Holz, Bartusik, Melendez).

The battle between Beowulf and the dragon depicts the strength of homo against that of brute. Ego plays a major role in how the dragon and Beowulf both reply when they feel a lack of respect. They both make up one's mind to accept matters into their own hands, resulting in their deaths. Beowulf and the dragon are destroyed by more than than their protection of their homes. Both ultimately die because of their pride.

Works Cited Donaldson, E. Talbot. Beowulf. Ed. Nicholas Howe. New York: W.W. Norton & Co., 1992.

Holz, Bartusik, Melendez. �Nigh the Dragon�. CSIS.Pace.EDU/GRENDEL. January 28, 2002.