The poem Beowulf explores many different themes throughout the poem, but most importantly the position and danger of both loyalty, and revenge. Until now, rather than supporting a certain theme, the author declares opposing views between both themes, leaving the us to decide for ourselves Loyalty the benefit that guides Beowulf through every step in the journey he takes. Coming to the assistance of the Danes is clear evidence for this right. The Danish king, Hrothgar, came to the assistance of Beowulf’s late father, Ecgtheow, years before a tribal argument by paying praise to Ecgtheow’s enemies. Beowulf is proud to keep to his loyalty to the Danes and help Hrothgar in his time of need, even to the point of risking his life more than a few …show more content…
His enthusiastic loyalty to his kingdom caused Beowulf to make a quick decision of going after the dragon instead of, taking a moment to think of the consequences or come up with a strategy. By rushing into battle, Beowulf’s old age is no match for the fires of the deadly beast, and though the dragon is slayed, Beowulf dies as well. Now there is the subject of revenge. This was clearly a motivating issue for the beast, Grendel. Jealous of the joy and happiness inside of Herot’s halls, he attacks the men, seeking revenge for the God forsaken tradition that he has been given. This thoughtless act, encouraged on by the heat of an emotion, caused Grendel to die by the blade of Beowulf’s sword. Severely limited, vengeance could be a helpful thing. Grendel’s mother seeking revenge for the killing of her son could’ve had a more positive outcome if she had planned her hunt more wisely. Maybe, if she had come and offered her case to the Danes, they could have worked out some sort of agreement, instead of Beowulf having to kill her too. The same thing goes for the dragon at the end of the poem. Later, a run-away slave had stolen a valuable treasure from the monster’s lair, which results in the fiery beast going on an unforgiving raid on Beowulf’s home kingdom. Perhaps, if the dragon had pled his case to the gracious king, Beowulf could’ve hunted after the