Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Beowulf 2

Comment on Wiglaf’s character throughout the end of the book. Is he honorable or heroic like Beowulf or does he display an additional set of values?

Wiglaf showed many similar heroic characteristics as Beowulf towards the end of the book. Wiglaf showed bravery, honor, wisdom and strength, all characteristics Beowulf showed through out the poem. Wiglaf showed bravery and strength when he was the only one of Beowulf’s men that stayed to help Beowulf fight the dragon; the rest ran away in fear. But before he ran into the fight, he made a speech to his men telling them they are cowards if they go home instead of staying and fighting, which showed his honor towards his king. Beowulf was known to give a speech before a major battle, which shows their similarities. Though Wiglaf was not able to save Beowulf, he was there to help him defeat the dragon. He comforted Bewoulf as he was dying. Beowulf did not have to die alone since Wiglaf was there and he was able to die knowing that he has won the treasures for his people and a worthy man will be able to take care of the Geats. From what Wiglaf has shown, he could be a potential leader of the Geats and the troops.


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