Beowulf is a brave Anglo-Saxon prince, and Sir Gawain is a typical Medieval knight. They adhere to different values because the world’s picture was not the same at their times. Beowulf possesses pagan and severe characteristics. At the same time, Sir Gawain reflects Christian and feeble ones.
Detailed answer:
The definition of a hero is constantly changing. The society evolves. So, there is a great deal of variation in the importance of the morals and values within the culture. There are some differences between Sir Gawain and Beowulf.
Firstly, the genres of the stories differ. The types of Beowulf and Sir Gawain as heroes are in contrast, as well. The modern world is acquainted with only the Old English epic character Beowulf. It contains a significant number of insights. Beowulf is set in Europe during the Anglo-Saxon times. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is a late 14th-century Middle English chivalric romance.
Secondly, the characters’ features and the attitude toward the heroes are different. Beowulf is like a bear. He is a bold and courageous hero. Beowulf is willing to make the village free from the horrible monster Grendel. His intentions are kind and generous to people. They admire his bravery. Everyone values the fact that he is ready to sacrifice his life in the battle.
The society’s transformation from dark to noble times provokes a remarkable shift from outer character qualities to inner. Sir Gawain is not strong compared to other knights but virtuous and loyal. The acceptance of the Green Knight’s challenge is an honor for him. He protects King Arthur’s life and puts his less valuable one at stake. The surrounding people do not understand the necessity of his action. That is why Sir Gawain and The Green Knight is a simpler comedy about heroism in contrast to Beowulf.