Beowulf Armstrong Quotes

In the epic poem Beowulf, the central character represents a courageous and devoted hero yet, his bravery and wisdom can lead him to be flawed. Beowulf serves as an tremendously loyal and fearless hero towards Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, as displayed in this quote ¨We crossed the sea to come here; it is time to return, to go back to our belovéd lord, Higlac. Denmark was a gracious host; you welcomed us warmly. O great king, anything more than I have done, battles I can fight in your honor, summon me, I will come as I came once before.¨ (1818-1826). Beowulf is portrayed as a extremely loyal to his goal of helping the people of Herot by killing Grendel. Beowulf is depicted as not being daunted of Grendel and the danger that comes along with

him. He is idealized for his outstanding achievements and noble qualities. Beowulf believes that it is his obligation to protect Hrothgar and the people of Herot as shown in this portion of the text ¨If I hear, from across the ocean, that your neighbors have threatened you with war, or oppressed you as enemies once oppressed you, here, I will bring a thousand warriors, a thousand armed Geats to protect your throne.¨ (1826-1830).

Beowulf’s headstrong personality can occasionally lead him towards failure. He acts on impulse to save others but does not consider the repercussions. The title character’s bravery and desire to achieve fame through helping the individuals of Herot can edge Beowulf to pitfall. Beowulf displays his vindictive behavior as demonstrated in this passage ¨She’s taking revenge, your mighty grip, and that monster’s death. For years he’d been preying on my people; You came, he was dead in a single day, and now there’s another one, a second hungry fiend, determined to avenge the first, a monster willing and more than able to bring us more sorrow-- or so it must seem to the many men mourning that noble treasure-giver, for all men were treated nobly by those hands now forever closed.¨ (1333-1344). Beowulf’s continues to revert back to his Pagan beliefs by wanting revenge on Grendel and his

mother. Beowulf can lose sight of helping Hrothgar and people because his wisdom turns into to thoughtlessness. He acts upon his impulse to achieve fame that it can be mistaken with negligence. Beowulf’s audacious and heroic actions represent an ideal exemplar nonetheless, his weakness can generate fault.