DWC 102
Seminar Writing
# Beowulf’s motives to fight a monster or enemy.
BEOWULF SAID, “I have heard moreover that the monster scorns in his reckless way to use
weapons; therefore, to heighten Hygelac’s fame and gladden his heart, I hereby renounce sword
and the shelter of the broad shield, the heavy ward broad: hand to hand is how it will be, a life-
and-death fight with the fiend” (Beowulf 433-440)
BEOWULF MEANS, that he announced that he would fight with the monster without being
armed. Beowulf’s task became not only slaying a monster but now fighting with bare hands with
a bloody and powerful God-cursed demon. By putting of his armor and weapon, Beowulf would
gain higher glory and honor if he defeats the beast.
