BEOWULF 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?

In the end of the book Wiglaf shows his bravery by being the only one to help out and go with Beowulf to kill the dragon that has been attacking Geat-Land. His loyalty, strength, courage, and the willing to risk his own life for others give him characteristic traits of a hero, and reflect Beowulf’s appearance in the beginning of the book. Beowulf knows that his death is reaching when he is about to fight the dragon. Beowulf doesn’t back down and have Wiglaf take a shot at the dragon; instead he takes the stand and approaches the dragon. Wiglaf gives moral support while Beowulf is trying to take on the dragon. When Beowulf stabs the dragon for the 2nd time the sword breaks and Wiglaf steps up and stabs the dragons throat to prevent it from breathing fire. Once the dragon’s venom starts killing Beowulf, Wiglaf looks after him and listens to his last words. Beowulf has Wiglaf retrieve the treasure from the dragon and tells him to watch after the people of his kingdom. Beowulf’s last request is also to construct a barrow in remembrance of him. Wiglaf represents the new heroic figure of the hopes of people and the kingdoms future. Since he has similar characteristics to Beowulfs heroic values Wiglaf becomes the new figure of the Geats.