Beowulf, like many Anglo-Saxon heroes, is presented as the perfect hero. He is strong, kind, humble, brave, and does not possess any negative traits according to the author. However, unlike Beowulf’s positive traits, the reason for his actions are not clearly stated in the tale. Without an understanding of why Beowulf chooses to undertake his many quests in Denmark, it is not possible to call him a perfect hero.
Beowulf begins his heroic feats when he reaches the shores of Denmark. From the moment he steps upon the shore, Beowulf is confident and clearly states his intentions to the Danish guardsmen. This confidence leads to Unferth’s jealousy of Beowulf and his men. Unferth is considered Beowulf’s foil, but his taunts help show what the reader could consider to be Beowulf’s one major flaw. Beowulf cannot stand to be seen as a common man. Rather than letting Unferth’s comments pass as a petty, drunken insults, Beowulf goes on to retell the story in detailed order to ensure that he retains the people’s respect. In the interaction between Unferth and Beowulf in this scene, the reader can begin
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The reason for Beowulf’s trip appears to be done as part of a heroic deed done for nothing other than an obligation to help the helpless. However, upon meeting Beowulf, Hrothgar, the leader of the Danes, tells the story of how he settled the feud between Beowulf’s father, Edgetho, and another group. This revelation calls into question whether Beowulf is truly only in Denmark to help or if he is here to repay an old debt. The fact that Beowulf acts as if the trip is simply a heroic deed that he is obligated to do because of his strength indicates that he wants to repay a debt under the guise of a heroic feat. Beowulf’s unwillingness to state his true intentions is suspicious and reflects the idea that Beowulf does not want to be seen as a man that undergoes normal