Question

Which parts of this passage from Beowulf indicate that the poem is about war and glory? Lo! the Spear-Danes’ glory through splendid achievements The folk-kings’ former fame we have heard of, How princes displayed then their prowess-in-battle. Oft Scyld the Scefing from scathers in numbers From many a people their mead-benches tore. Since first he found him friendless and wretched, The earl had had terror: comfort he got for it, Waxed ’neath the welkin, world-honor gained, Till all his neighbors o’er sea were compelled to Bow to his bidding and bring him their tribute: An excellent atheling! After was borne him A son and heir, young in his dwelling, Whom God-Father sent to solace the people. He had marked the misery malice had caused them

Answer 1

"Beowulf" is an Old English epic poem consisting of 3.182 alternative lines. Although an exact date of publishing is not known, it is known that the poem was produced between 975 and 1025.

The parts of the passage shown in the question that indicate that the poem is about war and glory are the following: "Lo! the Spear-Danes'glory through splendid achievements. The Folk-kings' former fame we have heard of, How princes displayed then their prowess-in battle." This fragment is making allusion to previous wars that have been won, and how the glory conquered in them prevailed in time.

"Waxed 'neath the welkin, world-honor gained, Till all his neighbors o'er sea were compelled to Bow to his bidding and bring him their tribute." This fragment is making allusion about how honor was gained after the battle was won, and all the neighbors from over sea were forced to pay their respects to the winner, and send their tributes.

Answer 2

Here is the answer. The parts of the given passage above from Boewulf that indicate that the poem is about war and glory are the following: Lo! the Spear-Danes’ glory through splendid achievements; How princes displayed then their prowess-in-battle; Waxed ’neath the welkin, world-honor gained. Hope this answers your question.