The story of Beowulf is one of the oldest examples of what society considers a hero. Although the story was written in Anglo-Saxon times, the qualifications needed to be considered a hero by society remain the same. The Anglo-Saxons believed that a hero was strong and courageous, but also humble and kind. They also believed that a hero was intelligent and worthy, in which he would fight to the death to defend his people. In Beowulf and Grendel, directed by Sturla Gunnarsson, Beowulf is portrayed as caring, compassionate, noble, and understanding, which makes him seem like he possesses all the traits of a true hero. However, it seems quite the opposite in the story Grendel by John Gardner. The book Grendel describes Beowulf as sinister and ruthless, which makes him seem less like a hero. What society values ​​in a hero today is depicted more in the film than in the book, suggesting that a person is considered a true hero only if they possess certain heroic traits accepted by society. One characteristic that a person must have to be considered a hero is honor. The Anglo-Saxons placed great importance on this trait and believed that being honorable was almost a necessary condition for being considered a hero. This was because they believed that a hero was supposed to be a role model for others. If a person did not have honor, he would not be a role model for others, which would prevent him from having the privilege of being considered a hero. This trait is portrayed differently in the book and the film. Throughout Beowulf and Grendel, Beowulf constantly proves that he is honorable, in which he shows immense respect not only for the Danes, but also for Grendel. Although he kills Grendel at the end of the film, he demonstrates great love...... middle of paper ......tion of very important traits one must acquire to maintain a reputation for 'heroic. While the film shows the more caring and compassionate side of a hero, the book presents a more intimidating and hostile side. The book and film relate to today's Anglo-Saxon culture. They reveal the two sides that a hero must have, according to society's standards. Both the film and the novel support the idea that a hero is judged based on certain traits he possesses. One can only be a hero if that person meets society's standards of being a true hero. If Beowulf did not have the heroic characteristics mentioned in the book and movie, he might not even have been considered a hero. Works Cited: Beowulf and Grendel. Real. Sturla Gunnarsson. Perf. Gerard Butler and Sarah Polley. Anchor Bay Entertainment, 2005. DVD. Gardner, John. Grendel. New York: Knopf, 1971. Print.