In the poem, Beowulf, translated by Charles W. Kennedy, the poem
depicts Beowulf as a heroic figure who's skill and courage enable him to
defeat monsters. The poem begins with Scyld Shefing who was the first
great king of the Danes. He was known for his ability to conquer enemies.
Scyld was the great-grandfather of Hrothgar. Hrothgar was the king of the
Danes during the events of Beowulf. Hrothgar was a good king and wished to
celebrate his reign by building a grand hall called Heorot. When the hall was
finished Hrothgar hold a large feast. This feast caused the attention of the
monster Grendel. Grendel decided to attack during the night. In the
morning, Hrothgar and the people saw the bloodshed and mourn of the lost
warriors. This began Grendel's attack upon the Danes. Twelve years pass and
eventually the news of Grendel's invasion on the Danes reached the Geats.
Beowulf a Geat warrior decided to help the Danes.
Beowulf arrived in Dane and acted as if he was better than anyone
else. Beowulf announced himself as the thane of Hygelac and the son of
Ecgtheow. Ecgtheow was a man known for winning battles. Once at
Hrothgar's throne, Beowulf introduced himself as a hero who can crush
water sprites, among other things. Beowulf showed this confidence in great
"They had in remembrance my courage and might. Many have seen me
come safe from the conflict, Bloody from battle: five foes I bound of the
giant kindred, and crushed their clan."(321-324)
Therefore he is equipped to defeat Grendel. The Geats met with the Danes
for a feast. During the feast, Hrothgar's thane Unferth tried to lower
Beowulf. He said Beowulf lost a swimming contest with Breca. Beowulf
"I count it true that I had more courage, More strength in swimming
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