The novel Ransom by David Malouf (2009) and Beowulf by Anonymous (?8th century) utilize different narrative uses of the hero and failure to be heroic within their respective texts. Both challenge the reader's understanding of what it means to be heroic. Malouf describes that there are acts of courage greater than those that can be achieved through battle, which are qualities of a hero. Both Priam and Achilles are expected to behave in a certain way that makes them become symbols of a hero, as well as images of the ideal king and warrior to the people around them. It is through these characters, as well as Somax, that Malouf emphasizes that even ordinary people who live and work far from the battlefield are capable of possessing heroic qualities such as compassion, courage, and courage. Likewise, within Beowulf, the reader is constantly reminded of his heroic presence and strength as he is an ideal king and an archetypal warrior. Beowulf is the greatest of the heroes depicted in the poem not only because he possesses the greatest skill in battle. It also fulfills its social obligations towards society. He has the values ​​of a civilized man, as well as the strength of a warrior. Boewulf always cares for his people and is always kind and gentle, thus becoming a hero. Themes of compassion and kindness, courage and boldness are explored in both lyrics. Ransom and Beowulf both depict themes of compassion and kindness as a key character trait of a hero that the reader is invited to create through the narrative of the lyrics. In Ransom, Achilles is given the opportunity to capture or kill the king of Troy. Instead, however, he acts with the qualities of a hero such as compassion and kindness and puts aside his “hard, manly quality… middle of paper… in Beowulf's death. Also highlighting Beowulf's courage in fighting the dragon. The characters of Beowulf and Ransom demonstrate the most important characteristics of heroes; courage, courage, kindness and compassion. Malouf suggests that true courage is formed away from the battlefield. in acts of kindness and compassion. Malouf describes that there are acts of courage greater than those that can be achieved through battle, which are qualities of a hero. He also argues that it takes more courage for kings and heroes to put aside their reputations and "take on the lighter bond of simply being a man." Likewise, the character of Beowulf clearly exemplifies these traits. Both challenge the reader's understanding of what it means to be heroic. The reader is constantly reminded of Beowulf's heroic presence and strength as he is an ideal king and warrior.