The Importance Of Fame And Power In Beowulf

Despite its creator being unknown, “Beowulf” continues to be one of the most revised and analyzed epic poems in American and British literature. This is in part due to the narrator’s use of powerful themes such as: “Good vs. Evil” and “War vs. Peace.” However, “The Importance of Fame and Power” is debatably one of the poem’s most prominent themes. Beowulf’s constant search for recognition and appraisal have lead him into the most gruesome and life-threatening battles which make this poem such an epic and classic work of literature. Throughout the poem, the main character, Beowulf, seems to be more concerned with fighting off monsters and other beastly creatures to gain notoriety. One of the signs of Beowulf’s undeniable arrogance is showcased in lines 151-159 of the passage “from Beowulf,” in which the hero speaks of the numerous traits that qualify him to fight one of the most dangerous and horrifying beasts in the land of the Danes. Beowulf who had been summoned by Hrothgar, ruler of Herot, stand pridefully, with his helmet on to list of the different reasons why he should be the one to fight Grendel. He boastfully states that,

Although his constant search for fame and glory have landed him in harmful situations, they have also indirectly granted Beowulf the admiration of the Geats, who are his loyal followers. They believe that Beowulf deserves honor and respect for his bravery and wisdom, which are the results of his countess victories in deadly battles. The Geats are a claque that value and, most importantly, respect Beowulf because of his determination and high stature. As the prince of a southern region of Sweden, Beowulf is automatically regarded as an honorable man by the Geats. They, like Beowulf, are mostly concerned with gaining fame and appraisal, which is shown in lines 595-601 when enter Herot’s hall with Grendel’s head to prove their success in defeating the giant