Dr.

Sharon Sellers—Beowulf (I)—Notes regarding some key points and bigger ideas
Explanation: Given that the author strongly emphasizes and repeats some points, repetitions
may occur, for I took these as I read. The parenthetical page references are taken from the Dover
Thrift Edition (New York, 1992).

1.In this world, a good reputation matters. This reputations encompasses

courageous deeds, honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice as key virtues (1,16). A warrior
should not isolate himself in a bubble but rather should risk himself to help others.
He should willingly abandon comfort and security, venturing into the potentially
dangerous unknown and risking his own death (4,12, 25b, 26). Such a heroic
individual does not hide his accomplishments; rather, he tells stories that keep
these accomplishments alive. Such is not considered bragging IF these
accomplishments are true (8). Plus, a genuinely worthy hero does not tolerate
disrespect from another who jealously undermines substantive, courageous
achievements (Unferth, for example).
2. A good king/ruler is esteemed as a blessing, and his subjects owe him
obedience, loyalty, and tribute (1,2). Such a leader should be unselfish, providing
gifts to those who honor and serve him well, and constructing gathering places like
Heorot to enhance community (2). In addition, this king should be humble enough
to admit that he needs and welcomes help, as Hrothgar does with Beowulf—
encouraging him and then generously rewarding him (9).
3. This work contains glimmerings of many Biblical and Christian truths (1,2b,3t,
5-8, 11-13, 17-18,20t,23b,26t).
4. Vestiges of pagan views are also interspersed (1,4m,9t,22,23t).
5. Communal ceremonies, such as funerals, matter. These perpetuate part of what
is worthy and solidify community (1). Other important ceremonies include
celebrating victories and giving gifts (19,22,23t).
6. In this culture, a worthy man acts—risking himself to save others, preserving the
social order, and averting further danger. The poet scorns lack of action as seen in
his depiction of Grendel’s 12 year siege during which many in the King’s retinue
did nothing substantive to avert chaos (4).
7. Heroes in this world confront real evil, embodied initially in Grendel, a demonic
being who seeks to destroy and kill, extolling chaos over joy (2,3,8,13,15).
8. Words matter. How one speaks to and presents himself to strangers sets a tone
and favorably or unfavorably affects reactions and perceptions (5b). In addition,
Page 2—Dr. Sellers—Beowulf (I)—Notes and reflections
words compiled as stories are a KEY form of entertainment—bringing men, in
particularly, together as they esteem real achievements and courageously face
dangers (11b). Even sad and gruesome stories of battle also become entertainment.
After Grendel’s death, such is the case, and the author may be implying that any
rejoicing will be temporary, for dangers come and bring devastating sorrow—even
to those who are most heroic and courageous (20-21). B continues to speak well
after murdering G—acknowledging his accomplishments directly and being
grateful to God (18, 23b). Later, B unselfishly departs and then boldly fights G’s
mother (25b,26,27).
9. In this world, wherein nature poses many threats and chaos threatens in multiple
ways, hospitality is a virtue. Honoring one’s guests; listening to their stories; being
gracious and offering shelter, food, and congenial entertainment—all these matter.
10. Jealousy diminishes an individual. In this culture, a worthy man does not boost
himself by undermining others or by being sarcastic about or critical of another
(Unferth 10).
11. A virtuous woman, particularly a queen, honors her husband by honoring his
guests. She readily offers gracious hospitality and genuine gratitude for help (12).
Wealtheow continues to manifest graciousness and generosity after B kills
Grendel, giving him lavish gifts and requesting his protection for her son (22-23).
12. Any sort of social order and peaceful existence are quite fragile in this world,
for darkness and chaos threaten. Human happiness is transitory (24b, 25, 26).