Beowulf Reputation Essay

Throughout the epic of Beowulf, it is clear to the reader that reputation is extremely important: it is especially important to Beowulf himself. When Beowulf first introduces himself to the Scyldings, he states his accomplishments to impress other around him. Doing this gains not only him honor but honor for his king as well. Then, when his reputation is attempted to be tarnished by Unferth, it is seemed as the worst insult possible that Beowulf can get. Beowulf is obviously concerned about how the world would view him and his accomplishments. It is a way for Beowulf to become immortal even after his inevitable death. Unferth accuses Beowulf of childishly challenging Breca in a seven day swimming contest in the sea, and announcing that he …show more content…
Instead of returning with the treasure like any other character would have done, Beowulf insisted on returning with Grendel's head and the magic sword's hilt. This institutes that Beowulf has enough treasure and would rather further his reputation more than his belongings. Lastly, at the end of the epic, Beowulf is in preparation of battling the dragon. Even though Beowulf has now become King Beowulf, ruler of the Geats, he still continuous to think of his reputation. Beowulf refuses to battle the dragon with anyone with him, undeterred by the fact that his death will leave his people in lesser hands. Hrothgar's exhortation had cautioned Beowulf of his pride that may even turn into something dangerous. His superfluous pride seemed to defend his reputation more than anything. "…twelve of the bravest Geats Rode their horses around the tower, Telling their sorrow, telling stories Of their dead king and his greatness, his glory, Praising him for heroic deeds, for a life as noble as his name…mourning their beloved leader, Crying that no better king had ever Lived, no price so mild, no man So open to his people, so deserving of praise." (Raffel