Writing an essay

Look at the writing prompt, carefully, what is it asking for?“What is the story of Beowulf about and how he fits as a good example of an epic hero. What kind of epic hero is he and what is his hero’s quest? THAT is your thesis statement.

Using the writing prompt, decide on thesis statement. In order to do that you must….

Use your notes and any related text:

How many of you took notes when you were listening to my lecture on Epic heroes?

In order to find that, you must first do this:Look at the prompt. What does it say? Break it down:How does Beowulf fit as a good example of an epic hero?

• Hero as warrior (Odysseus): A near god-like hero faces

physical challenges and external enemies

• The Superheroic: Exaggerates the normal proportions of

humanity; frequently has divine or supernatural origins. In

some sense, the superhero is one apart, someone who does

not quite belong, but who is nonetheless needed by society.

(Mythological heroes, Superman)TYPES OF QUESTS

The quest for vengeance

The warrior’s journey to save his people

The quest to rid the land of danger

TYPES OF HEROES

Thesis statement (mine):

“Beowulf fits the definition of a classic epic hero as warrior whose quest was to rid the land of danger”

Brainstorm. For example, use a web chart

Epic Warrior Hero to rid the land of

danger

DANGER in land- people need to be saved.

Beowulf kills Grendel, his

mom and later the dragon

Kills mother underwater-supernatural powers

How will you support your thesis? Begin to outline.

How long will your essay be? Five paragraph essay? Or three paragraph?

What kind of an essay will you be writing? Compare contrastDeductive logicPoint-by-point analysis Development of a central theme Chronological history of an event

Five-paragraph essay using the point-by-point structure.

1. Introduction- includes thesis statement

2. First paragraph supporting the thesis point one. Use examples

3. Second paragraph stating second point.

4. Third body paragraph- third point.

5. Conclusion- wrap it up. End it like you began- state the thesis.

1. Introduction- include thesis statement- Beowulf is a classic epic warrior hero whose quest was to rid the land of danger.

2. Although he was something of a glory seeker, he kills the evil monsters, Grendel, his mother and the dragon. The narrative says that he was greatly regarded for his bravery and skill in ridding the land of the scourge of monsters. His quest was to rid land of danger, which he does by killing the monsters.

3. Beowulf is a braggart. This is a common attribute of epic hero, (include a citation) and was expected of men of great courage and ability.

4. Some question as to whether B is a superhero or just a warrior hero. True, B has power, ie killing mom underwater, but warrior hero’s have god like capabilities. Etc etc Discuss difference. Explain why warrior hero is more suitable.

5. It is interesting to note that during B’s time, the most important attribute was bravery and strength. Because of B’s bravery, ability to slay the monsters and free the land of dangers these features fit the criteria for an epic hero.

3 paragraph essay using development of a central theme

1. Introduction- includes thesis statement

2. Body supporting the thesis

3. Conclusion

Rewrite your Beowulf essay based on the information I have given you in this PPT. Use the five-paragraph model.

Writing Prompt:

How does Beowulf fits as a good example of an epic hero? What kind of epic hero is he and what is his hero’s quest? Support your statement by including examples from the story.

Use your epic hero cheat sheet, your book and other sources to research your writing.