Beowulf Journals 41-45

41.

Lines 2166-2171 ~ So ought a kinsman act, instead of plotting and planning in secret…each was concerned for the other’s good.

This is a foreshadow to Hrothgar and his nephew. This may also parallel the Uncle to Nephew relationships between Beowulf and Hygelac AND Hrothgar and his nephew. Beowulf and Hygelac have a great relationship, they genially care for each other. Hrothgar thinks that he has a good relationship with his nephew, but once Hrothgar dies his nephew kills his cousins so he can become king. (Hrothgar’s wife knew about this.)

42.

Lines ~ 2148-2151 ~ These, King Hygelac, I am happy to present…who are close, my king, except for your kind self.

Beowulf doesn’t want the riches. He just wants the fame. He also wants to pay respect to not only his king, but to his uncle and close friend. Beowulf, being arrogant, probably doesn’t have to many friends, or doesn’t allow himself to get close to people. Hygelac is really the only family (that we know of) that Beowulf has left. Without Hygelac, Beowulf would probably be nothing.

43.

Lines 2207-2211 ~ …the wide kingdom reverted to Beowulf. He ruled it well for fifty winters, grew old and wise as warden of the land until one began to dominate the dark…

This is a parallel to Hrothgar’s life in Heorot. Hrothgar also ruled for fifty years until a monster (Grendel) wreaked havoc among his nation. The same is happening to Beowulf.

44.

Lines 2291-2293 ~ So may a man not marked by fate easily escape exile and woe by the grace of God.

Pagan beliefs are conflicting Christian beliefs. Pagans believe that if you are fated to do something, you will fulfill that duty, even when faced with death. Christians believe that everything that happens is God’s doing.

45.

Lines 2324-2327 ~ Then Beowulf was given bad news…the throne room of the Geats.

This marks the beginning of the downfall of the Geats. The burning of the great mead hall symbolizes the strength and glory of the country disintegrating.