An anglo-saxon hero would be on a quest for fame or pride like Beowulf. He went out to save Hrothgars land and wanted people to know his name and become king. During this time period a hero would usually have to defeat monsters. Modern day heroes may not be someone who has to defeat a monster but they are people that are willing to put there lives on the line to help others. These people are firefighters, police, military, or even someone just helping another person. They also are not doing for the fame, they are doing in because they care.
I think the elegies are still in the form same today. For example the avengers movies are all about a group of heroes fighting against monsters to protect earth and each other. One of Tony Starks tragic flaws would be his pride, just like Beowulf. I think elegies will continue to be in this form for a long time because everyone loves a good hero story. I learned not to let my pride get me into trouble or in a situation I will regret later.
Jaxon's Blog 