Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how many scholars and critics have argued over Unferth's role in "Beowulf", as a foil to the hero, an allegory or even a monster like Grendel. In particular, the paper examines five different incidences in the poem where Unferth appears in order to determine what Unferth's character and actions say about Beowulf and why the two men exchange swords.

From the Paper:

"Unferth, we are told, is a warrior and thane to Hrothgar. In the tradition of the times he is eager to boast of his own exploits and is upset to see a better man in the position of possible savior to the mead hall. This is where several differing ideas present themselves. In my previous studies of Beowulf it has always been assumed that boasting, so to speak, was not only a tradition but a right, belonging to a victorious and righteous warrior. It allowed others to become aware of the warrior's glorious past deeds and acted as a sort of recommendation for future conquests. This idea helps me to see so clearly why Unferth is so upset. Though we learn later that Unferth was a somewhat courageous warrior, he is also known to have killed his kinsmen and that makes him unfit to save the mead hall from Grendel. Beowulf however, is an able man. He has not committed such a grievous sin and has a long history of heroic action and it is these things that make it appropriate for him to correct Unferth and do a little innocent boasting himself. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Chickering, Howell D. Beowulf. Doubleday, New York, 1977.
• Nicholson, Lewis E. An Anthology of Beowulf Criticism. University of Notre Dame Press, 1963

Visitors who viewed this Poem Review also liked these:

• Book Review # 34688 : " "The Question of Hu"
• Analytical Essay # 34590 : "The Question Of Hu"
• Analytical Essay # 44967 : "The Question of 'Should We' in Science Fiction"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: