Beowulf Essay
Beowulf’s appearance is one of greatness, arrogance, and confidence. When Beowulf and his team of Geats arrive at the Danes land, the first thing that the watchman notices is the greatness and boldness of the men that sailed to his land, especially Beowulf. The watchman states, “… Nor have I ever seen, Out of all the men on the earth, one greater than has come with you…” as he examines Beowulf and his team (161-163). The watchman was confused as to why the Geats walk his land so openly and without secret, and even thinks their greatness is a cover-up made so that he may let them enter further into his land as spies. Beowulf is one of the oldest English epic hero. He’s a great one too.
Beowulf, however, is prepared for this unfriendliness, and he answers his questions like a born leader, stating, “We are Geats. Men who follow Higlac…” as part of a grand speech he gives to the watchman, which results in his team being able to go on into the land (173-174). I thought in my opinion that it was a fine speech. He was able to speak to Hrothgar after that. “..Strongest of the Geats-greater/and stronger than anyone in this world.” (110/111) “..he was loved by the Geats…”(118) “..the bravest and best of the Geats…”(121
Beowulf makes sure that everything he does will only aid him in obtaining fame and glory. This is seen clearly whenever Beowulf fights Grendel. Before the fight, Beowulf explains, “… My lord Higlac might think less of me if I let my sword go where my feet were afraid to…” which shows that he indeed cares about people’s thoughts of him (264-266). From the quote, it was clear that Beowulf does not want to carry weapons because it will give people something to talk about. It would have been much easier to use weapons against Grendel, but he wanted to fight fair.
Unlike Beowulf, Hrothgar is not as brave. He wishes to save his people from this monster but he is aged and more emotional than Beowulf. In most of the story Hrothgar is either sharing his wisdom with Beowulf or grieving. Beowulf also does another thing that may