His transition from warrior to king, and, in particular, his final battle with the dragon, revises the separation between the duties of a heroic warrior and those of a heroic king. In the eyes of several of the Geats, Beowulf's bold encounter with the dragon is morally confusing because it dooms them to a kingless state in which they remain vulnerable to attack by their enemies. ... The emphasis on the loyalty of the warriors ("when fighting starts steadfast companions will stand by him") has a special resonance for Beowulf, given the disloyalty of his men in his encounter with ...

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• Approx Pages: 12