Discuss Beowulf as an epic, and what epic features it has.

First consider the elements of an
epic:

• long narrative in
  elevated style


• main character is a hero who is often on a
  journey and possesses almost god-like
  characteristics


• action in epics often involve a battle or
  multiple battles


• presence of supernatural beings
  (monsters, demons, non-human enemies -usually-)


• often
  contain long speeches

Given the above
qualities, consider how Beowulf
fits:

• Beowulf is
  a long narrative first written in Old English - but even translated is certainly written
  in verse form, with lots of alliteration, caesura, and
  kennings


• main character: Beowulf, who possess superhuman
  qualities


• Beowulf defeats 3 monsters in huge
  battles


• three monsters are all
  non-human


• reflective speeches abound in Beowulf
  - from historic remembrances to honoring kings and
  kingdoms.