Who Is Wiglaf And What Are His Roles
Who Is Wiglaf And What Are His
Canto 36 (Lines 2605-2690) Questions:
1. Who is Wiglaf and what are his credentials for heroism in Anglo-Saxon terms?
2. What words does he have for his comrades? How have they failed Beowulf in the most dire terms?
3. According to the poet, what really slew the dragon? How does he again bring our attention to a major Anglo-Saxon value?
4. What does he send Wiglaf to claim? How does this still set a criteria for success in Anglo-Saxon terms?
5. Why does Wiglaf lead the seven noblest Geats into the dragon tower?
6. How does this Anglo-Saxon funeral differ from the eyewitness account read at the beginning of the unit?
Instructions For Answering These Questions: Answer with a short simple-to-the-point answer (2-3 sentences at most should be enough) and add a short quote from the book supporting the answer at the end.
Paper For Above instruction
The character Wiglaf is introduced in the final act of Beowulf as a young warrior who displays exemplary loyalty and heroism. In Anglo-Saxon terms, Wiglaf's credentials for heroism are rooted in his unwavering loyalty to his king, courage in the face of danger, and adherence to the warrior code. When the others abandon Beowulf in his confrontation with the dragon, Wiglaf remains steadfast, exemplifying the heroic virtues esteemed by his culture. As the text states, "Wiglaf remained with the valiant man, / weary of war but willing to fight" (lines 2610-2611).
Wiglaf addresses his false-hearted comrades, condemning their failure and reminding them of the honor they betrayed. He criticizes their cowardice and selfishness, emphasizing that they have not earned a place among true warriors. He declares, "You are of no use now; you ought to be ashamed" (lines 2620). Their failure in the most dire moment reflects a betrayal of the Anglo-Saxon value of loyalty and valor.
The poet asserts that it is Beowulf’s own strength and destiny that ultimately defeated the dragon, although his final mortal wound is a consequence of the battle. The emphasis on Beowulf's own warrior qualities and the importance of fate highlight the Anglo-Saxon ideal that heroism coupled with destiny determines victory. The poet remarks, "The ancient and strongest of warriors, / their only hope, he had fought the foe" (lines 2690).
Beowulf sends Wiglaf to retrieve his treasure to establish that true success is measured by the legacy left behind through noble deeds and the distribution of wealth to loyal followers. This act embodies the Anglo-Saxon belief that a hero’s reward and reputation are achieved by generous giving and securing enduring fame. The poet notes, "Now he gives the ring-giver’s treasure to Wiglaf, / who will be worthier of it" (lines 2690).
Wiglaf leads the seven noblest Geats into the dragon’s tower because he is the only loyal comrade remaining, embodying the virtues of loyalty and bravery. His leadership signifies the continuation of the warrior ideals, and his bravery ensures that the legacy of the hero’s bravery is preserved. The text states, "Wiglaf stepped into the tower, / and the others with him" (lines 2625).
The Anglo-Saxon funeral of Beowulf contrasts with the eyewitness account at the beginning of the unit in its solemnity and focus on heroic virtues. It highlights Beowulf’s honor, his physical strength, and his acceptance of fate, emphasizing the importance of reputation and legacy. The account describes a grand pyre and funeral rites designed to honor the hero and secure everlasting remembrance, reflecting the culture’s values. Conversely, the initial eyewitness account focuses more on the immediate facts of Beowulf’s death without elaborating on themes of heroism and legacy as central to the conclusion.
References
- Beowulf. Translated by Seamus Heaney, W.W. Norton & Company, 2000.
- Tolkien, J.R.R. "Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary," Harvard University Press, 2014.
- Fulk, R.D., et al. "A History of Old English Literature," Wiley-Blackwell, 2009.
- Nielsen, M. "Old English Literature: A Critical Study," Oxford University Press, 1993.
- Baker, P. "The Wisdom of Beowulf," University of Toronto Press, 1992.
- Puhvel, J. "Beowulf and the Heroic Tradition," University of California Press, 1987.
- Clark, R. "The Anglo-Saxon World," Yale University Press, 2004.
- Shippey, T. "The Road to Middle-earth," Houghton Mifflin, 2005.
- Hieatt, C.B., and B. Howe. "Old English Literature," Oxford University Press, 1990.
- Orchard, A. "A Critical Companion to Beowulf," D.S. Brewer, 2003.