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Arrogance In Beowulf

353 Words2 Pages

In Seamus Heaney’s translated poem, Beowulf, the phrase “keenest to win fame” criticizes Beowulf’s selfish actions and motivations during his reign as king. Beowulf expresses his prideful motives often throughout his journey, namely when he fights Grendel and as well as when he discusses his encounters with the dangerous sea monsters. For instance, when Beowulf volunteers to fight Grendel and reform the Dane society, he “renounce[d] / sword and the shelter of the broad shield, / the heavy-war board; hand-to-hand / is how it will be…” (436-439). Beowulf’s refusal to fight with protection and weapons displays his confidence and arrogance. Instead of defeating Grendel with an immense army and weapons which is more tactical and more likely to succeed,

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