The Significance of Beowulfs Opponents free essay sample

This paper examines the significance of the antagonists in the novel Beowulf. This paper takes a look at those who oppose Beowulf. The author of the paper believes that it is in order to understand the poem it is necessary to understand the opponents actions and how they influence the text. `One could argue that the significance of Beowulfs foes lies in their purpose of enhancing the glory of Beowulfs heroism. According to the poet, Beowulf battles Grendels mother in this feud because, A man must act so/ when he means in a fight to frame himself/ a long-lasting glory (Beowulf, pg. 99, ll 1534-1536). By providing enemies for Beowulf to defeat, it would allow him to display his courage and attain glory. However, Beowulf later states, I performed this deed/ not without a struggle. Our strife had ended/ at its very beginning if God had not saved me (Beowulf, pg. We will write a custom essay sample on The Significance of Beowulfs Opponents or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 103, ll 1657-1659). This statement shows that Beowulf gives the credit of his victory to God. Beowulf expresses his opinion that God is the one who deserves the glory in these battles and not him. Therefore, it is shown that Beowulf does not obtain glory through the defeat of his foes and this further rejects the idea that the significance of the antagonists is to enhance Beowulfs heroism. The role of Beowulfs opponents in the poem is more significant and meaningful if they are used as characters created by the poet to express his criticism of revenge and feuds. `