Question

Which words describe the relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf?

Answer 1

Hrothgar and Beowulf's relationship is characterized by fealty, respect, and mentorship, reflecting the Anglo-Saxon ideals of loyalty and honor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf can be described using words such as fealty, respect, and mentorship. Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, acts as a generous host and a figure of authority and respect to Beowulf, who, in turn, shows loyalty and service to Hrothgar by agreeing to fight the monster Grendel that has been terrorizing Hrothgar's mead hall. This relationship represents the ideals of the warrior-king bond in Anglo-Saxon culture, where loyalty, honor, and service are key elements, mirroring the sense of duty depicted in the feudal pledge of fealty, such as that from Harold Godwinson to William of Normandy.

Answer 2

The words which describe the relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf is respect and loyalty.

In the stories of the Anglo Saxons, Comitatus is the relationship between the ruler and his thanes. In the story, “Beowulf” there exists a relationship of honor, friendship and respect among the ruler and the thanes. Beowulf protects his lord Hrothgar in the first part of the story. Beowulf is willing to fight for Hrothgar as he believes in what he stands for.