Beowulf

            A hero is defined as "A man admired for his achievements and noble qualities" (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 1999). Beowulf and the thirty-fifth president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, are best described as heroes. The traits they both exhibit define heroism. These traits are bravery, charisma and leaving a legacy.
             Both Beowulf and J.F.K. were noted for their bravery. Beowulf risked his life numerous times not only to protect his own tribe, the Geats, but also to rescue the Danes from the monster Grendel. Kennedy exhibited his bravery in battle as well. When Kennedy was stationed at the Solomon Islands, he was injured during a Japanese attack. He not only swam three miles to shore, but he pulled along an incapacitated friend. J.F.K. was decorated with a Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, thus commending him for his heroic deeds. .
             There has never been a world leader as charismatic as John Kennedy. To the ladies, he was a sex symbol. To the men, he was the man who would lead their country to victory over communism. To the country, he was a symbol of civil rights, which he adamantly promoted. Beowulf was also quite charismatic. His followers loved him, the Danes cherished him, and readers of his adventure rooted for him. Beowulf was always at the center of attention. At the large dinner prior to his fight with Grendel, Beowulf told stories of his epic quests and answered questions from awed listeners. At each of his fights, a number of spectators watched him in approval as they admired his strength. .
             The legacy left by both of these men still lives on today. People still talk of both men as if they were alive at this time. Kennedy has been praised for his fight against the red scare, his battle for civil rights, and for his creation of the Peace Corp. Ask any middle age adult where he was when Kennedy was shot, and he will be able to describe, in exact detail, his surroundings and emotions.