Student Question

What does Beowulf give to the boat watcher?

Quick answer:

Beowulf rewards the Danish shore guard with a sword featuring a handle hammered with gold. This gift honors the guard, who had initially challenged Beowulf upon his arrival, as part of his duty to protect the land. Beowulf's gesture signifies respect and goodwill, ensuring the guard's welcome when visiting Geatland. This exchange occurs around line 1897 of the poem.

Expert Answers

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Beowulf rewards the guard who watched the Danish shores and who had challenged Beowulf upon Beowulf's arrival, with a sword that hammered gold on its handle.  This was not only an honorable act on Beowulf's part, it also brought honor to the guard.  When Beowulf first arrived on the shores of the land of the Danes, the guard had stopped Beowulf and his men.  Beowulf bore the guard no ill will because the guard was simply doing his job.  The guard told Beowulf and his men as they left that they would be welcomed when they came to their shores in Geatland.  The scene where Beowulf rewards the guard occurs around line 1897.

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