Beowulf1

Beowulf was very loyal, and in return received many gifts and much recognition from the generous people. This proves that not only was that situation a test for Beowulf as Feldman argued, but also a constant reminder to him of the loyalty that he has to uphold to his people. He is basically claiming that he already knows he will kill Grendel without any help. Chase Colins writes about how this instance of Beowulf’s bragging could be conceived as over kill, however he thinks Beowulf is only standing up for himself in the manner that any man would. One critic argues that in this battle with Grendel’s mother, Beowulf is extremely brave, because the sword given to him by Unferth doesn’t work. Upon arriving to the dank lakes where she lives, Unferth lends Beowulf the sword, Hrunting, which is another symbol of generosity. This is a symbol of Beowulf’s faith also. The fact that Beowulf hasn’t heard any stories of Unferth is a symbol that Unferth was not a loyal man, argues Colins. William Lawrence argues that since Beowulf is so quick to respond to a challenge and never backs down, that he is way to prideful. Not only does he kill Grendel’s mother with one swing of a sword, but also stabs Grendels’ corpse many times through. He knows that God will decide the outcome, so relying on that, he is loyal to his people by fighting the deadly monster. He also conveniently mentions that he has never heard any stories of Unferth’s bravery. Beowulf tells Unferth the story of the swimming match and explains that he killed nine sea monsters while out at sea. Beowulf finishes by telling Unferth that, if he were as brave as he claims to be, Grendel would be dead already.