If Beowulf had not had a good reputation, his people may not have revered him as their leader, and they may not have been willing to do all they could to please him. They may not have been completely reliant on him to keep them safe from danger. Beowulf may not have been aware of his obligation, and he may not have taken its fulfillment as seriously. Without a good reputation, Beowulf may not have been determined to reach his objective, and he may not have been willing to put his life on the line by engaging in perilous and challenging combat. He may not have placed a high value on his reputation, and he may not have been resolved to be regarded as a stalwart warrior throughout history. Without a good reputation, it is possible that Beowulf would not have been as effective as a leader, and his people would not have had the same level of trust in him to protect and defend them.