Blog 2

• Blog – Comment on Wiglaf’s character throughout the end of the book. Is he honorable or heroic like Beowulf or does he display an additional set of values?


Wiglaf is definitely honorable throughout the end of the book. Wiglaf, unlike the other warriors stayed to fight alongside Beowulf. He was the only one willing to risk his life to help his ruler. Wiglaf then rightly accuses them of running when they vowed to fight. When Beowulf laid dying Wiglaf tries to comfort him and although Wiglaf is not Beowulf’s offspring, Beowulf thinks of him as a son, and passed control of the Geats to Wiglaf. I feel that Wiglaf earned the right to rule, rather than just inherit it. One why that Wiglaf showed honor/loyalty was when Beowulf sent him to get some of the treasure. Wiglaf could have easily taken some for himself, but instead did just what Beowulf asked of him and brought the treasure to him. Even though Wiglaf may not be as mighty as his predecessor, he certainly lacks nothing in courage and loyalty. I think that Wiglaf is very similar to Beowulf excluding Beowulf’s strength. Beowulf showed loyalty when he came to the assistance of the Danes and also when he returned to Greatland. Wiglaf shows the same loyalty when he stands beside Beowulf to fight the dragon. While it is Beowulf’s last battle Wiglaf goes on and directs Beowulf’s funeral. So not only has Wiglaf been loyal to Beowulf while Beowulf is alive, but also carries it to Beowulf’s death. At the end of the book Wiglaf condemns the ten men to exile, disowning them and denying their future rights to property and wealth, stating that it is better to die than it is to live in shame. “So it is goodbye to all you know and love on your home ground…every one of you will be dispossessed…a warrior will sooner die than live a life of shame.” (Pg. 195) This would be a saying that Beowulf would and did support so this shows that Wiglaf definitely has what it takes to replace Beowulf.