In Beowulf, what motivates Beowulf to travel to Denmark to help King Hrothgar?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A sense of heroic duty and the pursuit of lasting fame
Beowulf travels to Denmark to help Hrothgar by defeating Grendel, motivated by heroic duty and the desire for lasting fame. In the heroic culture of the poem, glory earned through brave deeds ensures a warrior's reputation beyond death.
Keep practicing
More Beowulf questions
- What is the name of the mead-hall that Grendel attacks repeatedly?
- Which quality is most emphasized as essential to a heroic king in Beowulf?
- Why does Beowulf choose to fight Grendel without weapons?
- What ultimately causes Grendel’s death?
- Who seeks revenge for Grendel’s death?
- Where does Beowulf fight Grendel’s mother?