Beowulf Journals

Ln. 1017 “…The Shielding nation was not yet familiar with feud and betrayal…” Foreshadow. The Dane’s REAL protector from invaders was Grendel and because he died, other nations will use that to their advantage to take their land. News spreads fast of dying monsters.

Ln. 1025 “…hardly a shame to be showered with such gifts in front of hall-troops…” Litotes. Beowulf LOVES attention, fame, and treasures – the fact that it’s stated as ‘hardly a shame’ is an understatement. It’s not a shame at all – it’s basically rubbing it in their face because the hall-troops themselves couldn’t fix the Grendel problem.

Ln. 1036 “…the harness of one included a saddle of sumptuous design, the battle-seat where the son of Halfdane rode when he wished to join the sword-play…” The fact that Hrothgar gave Beowulf gold-bridled horses is important because it’s a suggestion of royalty. The saddle proves again the bond between two family members, and the thankfulness that Hrothgar has towards Beowulf (giving him something of his own). Eight horses though…. Importance?

Ln. 1052. “…And compensation a price in gold, was settled for the Geat Grendel had cruelly killed earlier…” Grendel’s one and only murder for the night was one of Beowulf’s warriors. Hrothgar honors the dead by paying Beowulf the wyrdguild for his life.

Ln. 1057. “…Past and present, God’s will prevails…” this is a very Christian statement.

Ln. 1059. “…Whoever remains for long here in this earthy life…” This backs up the theme of the transitory nature of life.

Ln. 1070-1157 (POEM) The war between the Danes and the Freshlin’s sets up a theme of ambush. It foreshadows an ambush in Hereot.

Ln. 1166. “…under a cloud for killing his brothers…” Unferth killed his own kin. He really can’t compare himself to Beowulf or make Beowulf look bad by having done that.

Ln. 1175. “…You want to adopt this warrior as a son…. I am certain of Hrothulf…” Wealtheow is looking out for her immediate kin. She’s afraid that Beowulf will kill her children to become king. She wants Hrothgar to think about his actual children before adopting Beowulf.

Ln. 1218. “…be acclaimed for strength, for kindly guidance to these two boys and your bounty will be sure…” Wealtheow is worried about her children and asks Beowulf to watch over things. She foreshadows the future in a subtle way.