Importance of Minor Characters in Beowulf

Even small things have a purpose. For example in epics, minor characters can be as essential as the main characters. In the epic Beowuf, the charactes of Hrothgar, Unferth and Wiglaf prove necessary to the story.

Unferth plays an important role in Beowulf. Through his quarreling with Beowulf, he reveals some of Beowulf’s past achievements. Unferth says, “’You’re Beowulf, are you – the same/ Boastful fool who fought a swimming / Match with Brecca’” (239-41). Unferth’s words provoke Beowulf to tell his life story, thereby revealing to the reader the extent of his bravery. Secondly, Unferth’s challenge gets Beowulf angry, which provides Beowulf with more motivation

Some topics in this essay:
Beowulf Beowulf, Grendel Beowulf, Unferth Wiglaf, Furthermore Hrothgar’s, Match Brecca’”, Herot Hrothgar’s, Characters Beowulf, Secondly Unferth’s, grendel considered, Hrothgar Unferth, hrothgar unferth wiglaf, beowulf reveals, unferth wiglaf, hrothgar unferth, loyalty tradition, throne protected, hrothgar’s mead-hall, beowulf beowulf, minor characters, proves loyalty,