What kind of character is Hrothgar in Beowulf?
Hrothgar Character Analysis in Beowulf | SparkNotes Hrothgar, the aged ruler of the Danes who accepts Beowulf’s help in the first part of the story, aids Beowulf’s development into maturity. Hrothgar is a relatively static character, a force of stability in the social realm.
What does Beowulf say about the Geats at Heorot?
Beowulf says the Geats, having heard of Grendel’s attacks, offer… (full context) At Heorot, Hrothgar ’s herald, Wulfgar, asks the Geats who they are. Beowulf identifies himself by name as well… (full context)
What does the old King tell Beowulf about his life?
The old king offers his own life as an example of the changing fortunes that can come with age. Foreshadowing Beowulf’s trials in later life, Hrothgar points out that he ruled successfully for 50 years until Grendel brought him to his knees. Beowulf, whom Hrothgar thinks of as a son, must beware of pride and old age.
What is the significance of Hrothgar and the Dane’s situation?
Hrothgar and the Dane’s situation therefore foreshadows the actual threat that will face the Geats after Beowulf battles the dragon at the end of the narrative. The Beowulf quotes below are all either spoken by Hrothgar or refer to Hrothgar.
Who does Beowulf invite the Geats to speak to?
Wulfgar invites the Geats to speak to Hrothgar. Beowulf greets Hrothgar, and says he has heard that because of Grendel, Heorot stands empty… (full context) Hrothgar and the Danes are cheered by Beowulf’s resolve and daring.
What does Hrothgar ask the Geats at Heorot?
At Heorot, Hrothgar ’s herald, Wulfgar, asks the Geats who they are. Beowulf identifies himself by name as well… (full context) Hrothgar corroborates that he knew Ecgtheow, and adds that he knew Beowulf as a boy. Hrothgar (full context) Wulfgar invites the Geats to speak to Hrothgar.
What is the role of Hrothgar in the play?
Hrothgar is a relatively static character, a force of stability in the social realm. Although he is as solidly rooted in the heroic code as Beowulf is, his old age and his experience with both good and ill fortune have caused him to develop a more reflective attitude toward heroism than Beowulf possesses.