Student Question

In Beowulf, what actions does Beowulf take upon hearing about Grendel and why is the Danish guard worried?

Quick answer:

Beowulf decides to travel to Heorot to help King Hrothgar after hearing about Grendel's attacks. His desire to assist is supported by the Geats. Upon Beowulf's arrival in Denmark with fifteen armed men, a Danish guard is concerned, fearing they might be raiders due to their armor and weapons. However, the guard notices Beowulf's noble demeanor, which prompts him to allow Beowulf to explain his peaceful intentions.

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Expert Answers

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When Beowulf hears that Grendel has been terrorizing Heorot, he decides to travel there to lend his aid to Hrothgar. This explanation begins on line 194. Beowulf is said to be beloved by the Geats, and they don't begrudge him his desire to help someone not of their own people. 

The Scylding guard sees Beowulf arrive on the beach with the fifteen men that he has brought with him, and all of them are wearing armor and carrying shields and weapons. The guard goes to them and demands of them their names and purpose; after all, Beowulf and his men have not been announced, nor do they have any kind of password or sign to convey their peaceful intentions toward the Scyldings, and so the guard has to assume they have arrived for the purpose of raiding. However, he immediately notices Beowulf's noble appearance, contrary to what one would expect of a raider, which may explain why he gives Beowulf the opportunity to explain himself. 

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