Question

In this excerpt from Beowulf, what do the underlined words imply about Shield Sheafson? So. The Spear-Danes in days gone by and the kings who ruled them had courage and greatness. . . . There was Shield Sheafson, scourge of many tribes, a wrecker of mead-benches, rampaging among foes. . . . A foundling to start with, he would flourish later on . . . In the end each clan on the outlying coasts beyond the whale-road had to yield to him and begin to pay tribute. That was one good king. He was a fierce warrior. He took pleasure in destruction. He was disliked by both friends and enemies. He loathed social gatherings such as feasts. NextReset

Answer 1

I guess it refers to Beowulf. He is destined to be a great force that would defeat all those who would challenge him. It also represents what heroism is all about. Also emphasizes what it means in one’s culture where people are evaluated by their forefathers. In terms of heroism, even those without fathers have the potential to be a hero.