Beowulf: Essential #1

What are the social obligations of a hero? Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?

The social obligations of a leader are bravery and dedication to ones people. A hero must be willing to protect its people while also moving them forward by prosperous means. In Beowulf it is said that Scyld Scefing “terrified his foes…until the men of every neighboring tribe…were obliged to obey him and pay him tribute” (Lines 6-10). It is clear that a leader must be willing to destroy those against him and his people and in return acquire “praise and honor” (Line 8). Also, a leader must be valiant in military battles, which can be attributed to Hrothgar. He “won honor in war, glory in battle, and so ensured his followers’ support” (Line 64-66). Due to his willingness to give of himself in war, it can be understood that a hero must be other-centered in order to ensure safety among his community. A leader must also be stern yet compassionate, bold yet kind, and give orders but also be considerate. Furthermore, we can come to the conclusion that through such social obligations, he “who wins renown will always prosper among any people” (Line 24-25).

Beowulf is certainly aware of his deification process. However, unlike several men, Beowulf has a sense of humility in his acknowledgment of his deification process. In the beginning of the poem, “Beowulf searched out the bravest of the Geats, asked them to go with him” (Lines 205-206). If he was not aware of his honor and might, Beowulf would have not made such a long journey in order to be of service to Hrothgar. Beowulf explains that he has come “with most honorable intentions” (Line 265) which sheds light on his modest disposition and also his confidence in the fact that he can be of great aid. Beowulf’s daring and poised nature certainly gives way to the understanding that he is indeed aware of his becoming idealized and adored.