Introduction
The behavior of characters in an epic such as Beowulf typically makes a clear distinction between the concepts of barbarism and civility that is as applicable today as it was when the epic poem was first recited. Of the characters in this epic, both Beowulf and King Hrothgar are seen as examples of civility and right behavior – one as civility becoming and one as civility incarnate. Although Hrothgar is a very static character within the epic, and he is not as physically strong as Beowulf in a society that greatly prizes strength and physical power, Hrothgar is nevertheless seen as a model figure for man, whether in 1000 AD or 2008.
The brief basic description of the story
To begin with, Hrothgar demonstrates devotion to the old heroic code of the Germanic tribes. This code placed a lot of value on things like strength and loyalty in warriors, hospitality and political skill in leaders, the presentable nature of women and the good reputation of the people everyone associates with. These remain important elements in maintaining a good name and honorable character today. In describing how he worked to save Beowulf’s father’s good name, Hrothgar tells Beowulf “Great was the feud that your father set off when his hand struck down Heatholaf in death among the Wylfings. … I then settled the feud with fitting payment, sent to the Wylfings over the water’s back old things of beauty; against which I’d the oath of your father” (459-61; 470-72). In this, Hrothgar is recounting how the two families are connected in honor, allowing him to accept the help of Beowulf without losing any of his current power even though he is no longer physically strong enough himself to rid his kingdom of the ogre Grendel. This introduces yet another concept of the honorable man in that it is important not to owe debt to someone unworthy or unproven of your trust and respect.
In addition, Hrothgar is aware of the dangers of power that Beowulf is likely to encounter during his lifetime and seeks to warn him of them, indicating a distinct difference between the moral conscience between the civilized culture and that of the barbarian culture that doesn’t recognize such issues. This reflective attitude is mostly seen in his speech to Beowulf just before the Geats depart from Heorot. Here, he warns Beowulf against the sins of pride and greed as they will creep into his heart whether he will or no as he gains power and position among the tribes. “Beloved Beowulf, best of warriors, resist this deadly taint, take what is better, your lasting profit. Put away arrogance, noble fighter! The noon of your strength shall last for a while now, but in a little time, sickness or a sword shall swipe it from you” (1758-63). This advice provides important information for today as it is urged that mankind pay more attention to their inner worth and honor rather than their outer material wealth and self-interested pursuits.
Finally, Hrothgar represents the generous lord of the hall, as is expected of the best of kings in idealized images like King Arthur. In building his mead-hall palace, Hrothgar leaves plenty of room for his ring-thanes and is very generous in handing out gifts to those who frequent his hall. His dedication to generosity is seen in his speech to Beowulf. “What he has so long enjoyed he rejects as too little; in niggardly anger renounces his lordly gifts of gilt torques, forgets and misprises his fore-ordained part…” (1748-51). In other words, Hrothgar outlines the idea that generosity and ample support of your men is both an expected responsibility as well as a blessing bestowed on the lucky man by God, it is his obligation to look out for those below him, another lesson important to the modern man.
Works Cited
Alexander, M. (Trans.). Beowulf. London: Penguin Books, 1973.