Question

Explain what Beowulf is preparing to do at the beginning of section XXI, and describe what values underlie his decision. Cite textual evidence in your response.

Answer 1

Beowulf is preparing to kill Grendel's mother and restore order by avenging Aeschere and putting an end to the blood feud. His heroic view of life is that it is better to die with the glory of avenging our friends, than to live and wait for the life to end naturally, in peace. That is a true warrior's destiny: "Each of us all must his end abidein the ways of the world; so win who mayglory ere death! When his days are told,that is the warrior’s worthiest doom."