Ending of Beowulf

The end of Beowulf was my favorite part of the book. I felt like the last reading gave me an insight into who Beowulf really is and the kinsmen that work and protect him. I think I would have to say after reading the book, my favorite character is Wiglaf. To me, he was the true hero in the book. Beowulf was only eagar to win out of self-empowerment and selfishness in my opinion. I think he cared a lot about his status. When Wiglaf saw that Beowulf was dying, he stood by him through it all and went to get they treasures when told. He protected and even tried fighting for Beowulf. Even though that was Wiglaf's job and he "signed up" to protect, their were a lot of other kinsmen that were fearful and did not help. Wiglaf was a true hero and was willing to die if he needed to, he was not going to back down. Throughout the book, Beowulf was always eager to fight to win and prove himself he was better. Getting to know Wiglaf at the end made Beowulf's title of being the hero more interesting and arguable. Once Beowulf dies, Wiglaf mourns next to him, upset he could not save him from the dragon even though it was out of his control. He probably felt as if he failed as a kinsmen to protect his lord. That was the way Beowulf was though, he wanted to do everything on his own. The kinsmen come back once Beowulf and the dragon passed and see Wiglaf morning the loss of his lord, while the others look at him like he is crazy even though they were suppose to be protecting Beowulf as well. Wiglaf feels as if Beowulf wasted his time and generosity on them. I think Wiglaf a hero of the book even though he did not die. The end of the book was my favorite part.

Comments

  1. Paige ShrevesSeptember 24, 2017 at 10:11 AM

    I agree Virginia, I also feel that Beowulf did not live up to his ‘mighty warrior’ status. In my opinion, a hero is someone who selflessly helps others, even if it means putting yourself in harm’s way. Throughout the whole poem, it kind of seemed like Beowulf only went on the warrior quests for the glory and fame that he receives. It seemed selfish. But I seemed like that was part of their culture. Wiglaf also appeared to live up to a true warrior status because he was so selfless at the end of the poem. In conclusion, I feel a hero/warrior is someone who commits selfless acts.

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