Read this passage from Beowulf, in which Wiglaf, one of Beowulf's men, speaks to his companions as Beowulf battles the dragon. Wiglaf then joins Beowulf and addresses him.
“I remember the time when, tasting the mead-cup,
We promised in the hall the lord of us all
Who gave us these ring-treasures, that this battle-equipment,
Swords and helmets, we’d certainly quite him,
Should need of such aid ever befall him:
How we have forfeited our liegelord’s confidence!
In the war-band he chose us for this journey spontaneously,
Stirred us to glory and gave me these jewels,
Since he held and esteemed us trust-worthy spearmen,
Hardy helm-bearers, though this hero-achievement
Our lord intended alone to accomplish,
Ward of his people, for most of achievements,
Doings audacious, he did among earth-folk.
Our lord is in sore need of us.
The day is now come when the ruler of earthmen
Needeth the vigor of valiant heroes:
Let us wend us towards him, the war-prince to succor,
While the heat yet rageth, horrible fire-fight.”
...
Through the bale-smoke he stalked then,
Went under helmet to the help of his chieftain,
Briefly discoursing: “Beowulf dear,
Perform thou all fully, as thou formerly saidst,
In thy youthful years, that while yet thou livedst
Thou wouldst let thine honor not ever be lessened.
Thy life thou shalt save, mighty in actions,
Atheling undaunted, with all of thy vigor;
The monster advances on them.
I’ll give thee assistance.”

Complete the following sentences based on your reading of the passage.

In his speech to his companions, Wiglaf . Throughout this passage, Wiglaf is presented as .

NextReset

Respuesta :

1. In his speech to his companions, Wiglaf urges them to remember their duty. Wiglaf says that Beowulf had trusted all of them, and picked them because he believed they were brave and loyal. Even though he wanted to fight the dragon alone, now is his time of need, and they should act. Wiglaf would rather die now than go back home alive, with the unsoiled weapon.

2. Throughout this passage, Wiglaf is presented as a model of loyalty. When all other warriors act like cowards, retreating to safety, Wiglaf decides to risk his life and stand by his old king in this last battle. He still doesn't act as Beowulf's equal, but he nevertheless offers him support, as his sworn warrior. Beowulf is indeed encouraged by this act and manages to kill the dragon while receiving a mortal wound himself.