This is beautiful work. Although the considerations of your post are intriguing (on multiple levels) throughout, you make two claims that I found especially thought-provoking: (1) that the progression of the poem relies, initially, upon Beowulf's capacity for tactful persuasion, and (2) that Beowulf exhibits power, even heroism in not only battle but also speech. Certainly, there is a conversation to be had about these elements and their symmetry with the oral pedigree of the larger poem. However, disregarding such parallels for a moment, I think your post lends considerable weight to an often overshadowed but absolutely essential component of Beowulf (the poem): its rhetoric. In keeping with the idea that Beowulf serves (in part, at least) an edifying, theologically rooted purpose, the poet must appeal to rhetoric in the same way that Beowulf must on the Danish beach. To echo your words—if the poet had not employed such rhetoric (both monologic and dialogic) there would be no edification.
This was a genuinely great read, I liked how you focused on such a small character without even a name, like the Coast-guard, giving his perspective was a really nice touch and made me rethink just how significant his character was to the introduction to the story Ironically those are the characters that stick out to me although they might not have a big impact on the plot there really interesting aspects to a story to me.
Really beautifully said (is that too on the nose?). I must admit, as I read the poem, I was not expecting so much incredible dialogue within its lines... on the hunt for heroic adventure and action, I found myself pleasantly surprised with the plethora of rhetoric in the verse. I am glad you dived into this topic. I really enjoyed how you considered them together, so as to highlight their differences but the commonalities as well–namely, Beowulf's obvious command over language. Thank you for sharing :)
What a nice post, Jay! I like how you pointed out this specific phrase in the text where Beowulf has to "unlock" his word-hoard. This reveals that not only is he powerful in strength, but his speech as well as it is something that needs to be "locked away." I would love to hear what you had to say on the less than humble speeches that Beowulf often provides.
Jay, this is a great post, and you have truly unlocked an important aspect of the tale. Despite his strength, Beowulf does indeed speak in a measured way in the examples that you have given, and shows a nuance of character that belies patience and an ability to play the long game. One of the great things about the tale is the evolution of the relationships, and the change regarding Unferth is at the top of that list for me. The way he comes around to Beowulf later is emblematic of the strengthened brotherhood that results from Beowulf's heroic actions and his patience with dealing with those who at first harbored suspicions about him. Great observations!
Jay - I appreciated your take on the word play in Beowulf. I am enjoying reading it again as well since it has been about 30 years since I last encountered the mighty warrior and his exploits. I look forward to hearing about more of your ideas.
“ he does not simply speak, he ‘unlocked his word-hoard’” —great highlighting of this phrase. A novel term, but one that appeals to this poet.
This is beautiful work. Although the considerations of your post are intriguing (on multiple levels) throughout, you make two claims that I found especially thought-provoking: (1) that the progression of the poem relies, initially, upon Beowulf's capacity for tactful persuasion, and (2) that Beowulf exhibits power, even heroism in not only battle but also speech. Certainly, there is a conversation to be had about these elements and their symmetry with the oral pedigree of the larger poem. However, disregarding such parallels for a moment, I think your post lends considerable weight to an often overshadowed but absolutely essential component of Beowulf (the poem): its rhetoric. In keeping with the idea that Beowulf serves (in part, at least) an edifying, theologically rooted purpose, the poet must appeal to rhetoric in the same way that Beowulf must on the Danish beach. To echo your words—if the poet had not employed such rhetoric (both monologic and dialogic) there would be no edification.
This was a genuinely great read, I liked how you focused on such a small character without even a name, like the Coast-guard, giving his perspective was a really nice touch and made me rethink just how significant his character was to the introduction to the story Ironically those are the characters that stick out to me although they might not have a big impact on the plot there really interesting aspects to a story to me.
Really beautifully said (is that too on the nose?). I must admit, as I read the poem, I was not expecting so much incredible dialogue within its lines... on the hunt for heroic adventure and action, I found myself pleasantly surprised with the plethora of rhetoric in the verse. I am glad you dived into this topic. I really enjoyed how you considered them together, so as to highlight their differences but the commonalities as well–namely, Beowulf's obvious command over language. Thank you for sharing :)
What a nice post, Jay! I like how you pointed out this specific phrase in the text where Beowulf has to "unlock" his word-hoard. This reveals that not only is he powerful in strength, but his speech as well as it is something that needs to be "locked away." I would love to hear what you had to say on the less than humble speeches that Beowulf often provides.
Jay, this is a great post, and you have truly unlocked an important aspect of the tale. Despite his strength, Beowulf does indeed speak in a measured way in the examples that you have given, and shows a nuance of character that belies patience and an ability to play the long game. One of the great things about the tale is the evolution of the relationships, and the change regarding Unferth is at the top of that list for me. The way he comes around to Beowulf later is emblematic of the strengthened brotherhood that results from Beowulf's heroic actions and his patience with dealing with those who at first harbored suspicions about him. Great observations!
Well said, Jay. These heroes with wit as well as courage are stirring to meet on the page.
Jay - I appreciated your take on the word play in Beowulf. I am enjoying reading it again as well since it has been about 30 years since I last encountered the mighty warrior and his exploits. I look forward to hearing about more of your ideas.