Pride is a strong theme that flows throughout most British Literature. Characters often express the simplicities of being proud of their accomplishments and personalities toward their inner societies. Pride is used as a psychological weapon, it ruins lives, it gives to negative deeds but also is rewarding at times. The literatures of medieval times have changed over time from literature of today, which does not address the issue of pride as deliberately. This concept of pride still remains a major issue in modern times and much of it is displayed through a few British works. .
In the Anglo-Saxon story, Beowulf, pride is evident in a character named Grendel. He had the determined mentality that he was able to kill whomever he wanted at any time. Grendel had pride, pride that he had strength in which was dominant against mortals. "The hero of all heroes," Beowulf, strong and courageous, is the prince of Geats. Once he makes a vow, he stands by his word, no matter what the cost, even if it takes his life. He is reluctant to back down from battle, just so he can be there for the people who are in great need to be saved from evil. He signifies the pride-filled character because he is willing to risk his life for his ideals. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight also expressed a sense of pride. Pride is displayed through these characters" sense of will, power and emotion. Sir Gawain was confident that he could defeat the knight under the authority of his skills and successfully did. The issue of pride displayed thus far is widely revolved around an individual's abilities and strengths.
The Canterbury Tales is practically full of stories explaining the notions of pride and consequences drawn from a prideful character. The Wife of Bath's Tale is about a prince who had pride to the extent that he believed marrying someone ugly was impossible. Though as that pride dwindled, she turned beautiful, so in giving up his pride, he was blessed with a good deed.