What Is a Leader

            A leader is someone that has many good qualities. They must be someone that displays courage and respect for others. They must be physically and emotionally strong. They must also be able to make split second decision, for the greater good. A good leader is a person the people can believe in and trust. I will be comparing and contrasting Beowulf and Macbeth and the way they chose to display their leadership styles.

Beowulf is an example of a leader that demonstrates qualities that make people want to follow him. He displayed a courageous heart. Beowulf was ready and not afraid to risk his life for his people when he fought the sea monster and other threats to the kingdom. Macbeth was scared and panicked when the power went to his head. He is an example of a bad leader.

            Macbeth let his power and leadership go to his head, therefore he gained hatred from his people. He used his power to make sure he was not overthrown. Beowulf proved his loyalty by killing Grendel and the dragon. In return he gained followers, trust, and respect. Being a good leader means you have to know what you’re capable of and protect and not destroy. Macbeth was scared to be overthrown so he started killing any and everybody that he thought was a threat. Macbeth is a good example of what happens when you abuse your power.  

            Beowulf was a very strong and respected man. Unlike Macbeth, Beowulf cared for his followers. This is why Macbeth and Beowulf are total opposite leaders. Beowulf was not afraid to lose his life for his people. Macbeth on the other hand would kill all his people to remain in control and not be overthrown. Beowulf was not only an example good leader he also was an epic hero. Macbeth was just a power crazed fool who only cared for himself.

            Macbeth and Beowulf are examples of leaders with contrasting styles. Macbeth showed characteristics that are common in bad leaders such as Hitler. Beowulf showed characteristics of a good leader like trust, and respect kind of like Obama. To become a good leader you first must gain the peoples trust. You also have to be smart enough to not allow the power to go to your head.