Beowulf is truly an "action-filled" poem, which is composed largely of speech. Heaney's translation and interpretation of the speeches in this Anglo-Saxon poem provide the reader with great insight into the relationship between speech and character. Through reading Beowulf, the reader comes to understand the relationship between word and character and how both elements complement each other in order to inform the reader about the characters and the overall concept of character within this poem, as well as to enliven the story. of Beowulf. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on 'Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned'? Get an original essay In the speech given by Hrothgar to Beowulf (Heaney, 1321- 1382) the reader observes an interesting dynamic of relationship between word and character. This speech presents a side of Hrothgar's character not yet encountered. Hrothgar, through his own speech, is represented as a sentimental character, devoted and a friend of Aeschere. Hrothgar's ultimate anguish at Grendel's mother's killing of Aeschere creates sympathy for Hrothgar's character: "a soulmate to me, a true mentor, my right-hand man when ranks clashed and our coats of arms boar had to suffer a severe blow on the line of action." Hrothgar; despite having previously been presented as a kind and benevolent character: "Now take your seat at my table, enjoy the triumph of heroes to your heart's content", he is, in this speech, seen as capable of devoted love and tenderness. Hrothgar's speech also gives the reader insight into the character of Grendel's mother. Hrothgar lets Beowulf know that Grendel's mother has sought revenge against Beowulf's role in her son's death: "and now comes this mighty other, this evil force driven to avenge the death of his kinsman." This line portrays the vengeful nature of Grendel's mother. Hrothgar elaborates on the origins of Grendel and his mother, which serves to provide context regarding the origins of these characters: "They are fatherless creatures, and all their ancestors are hidden in a past of demons and ghosts." In addition to providing the reader with historical and contextual context of Grendel and his mother, Hrothgar's speech illustrates to the reader a physical description of the characters of Grendel and his mother, making the story of the poem more visualized and animated: “One of these things, as far as anyone can discern, resemble a woman; the other deformed into the shape of a man.” Hrothgar's speech furthers the reader's understanding of Beowulf's character, particularly Beowulf as the hero of the poem. In the conclusion of his speech, Hrothgar pleads with Beowulf to avenge Aeshchere and restore peace to Heorot: “Now help depends on you and you alone. The abyss of danger in which the demon awaits is still unknown to you. Seek it out if you dare.” This element of Hrothgar's speech makes it clear to the reader of the poem that Beowulf is highly dependent and foreshadows Beowulf's imminent victory against Grendel's mother by placing Beowulf in the pivotal role of the hero. The relationship between the speech given by Hrothgar and the characters in the poem serves to provide the reader with insight into the characters of Hrothgar, Grendel, Grendel's mother, and Beowulf, and to animate the action and plot of the poem. the relationship between word and character is that expressed by Wiglaf as he prepares to join Beowulf's side in battle and addresses his companions; reminding them of the code of honor of the "comitatus". This speech is delivered in a thoughtful and despondent manner, due to Wiglaf's disillusionment with the lack of loyalty and chivalry of his fellow men. Wiglaf's speech and the compulsion to join (2633- 2668).