For instance, he does not hesitate to boast of his abilities in battle. By developing Unferth as an arrogant yet unsuccessful warrior, the author is able to contrast Beowulf and Unferth and in doing so emphasize the fact that Beowulf's words are consistently followed with results. After Beowulf defeats Grendel, "Beowulf's doings were praised over and over again. Nowhere, they said, north or south between the two seas or under the tall sky on the broad earth was there anyone better to raise a shield or to rule a kingdom." (Heaney, 2002, p.23). Beowulf's defeat of Grendal earns him the respect and support from all whose lives he saved. This shows that unlike Unferth, Beowulf holds himself accountable for the claims he makes and in doing so, earns himself the status of a hero across the land. As a result, he eventually serves a long and successful tenure as the king of Geatland. Beowulf's confidence, coupled with his dedication to fulfilling all of his claims, made him a loveable leader by those who followed him. Beowulf's author succeeded in delivering the message that people are not only willing but are yearning to be led by someone who displays integrity, confidence, strength, and admiralty.
The phrase 'Ignorance is bliss' is a common expression used modern society to illustrate that sometimes knowing less can allow you to be happier. Though it seems to have a negative connotation, it is shown to hold a level of truth. This level of truth is shown in Oedipus the King, the idea that information can lead to disaster is unmistakable; Oedipus loses everything because of his pursuit of the Laius' killer. Determined to solve the murder mystery Oedipus sends for Tiresias the seer. Yelling at Tiresias after he refuses to tell Oedipus what the future holds, Oedipus demands that he be told the truth saying, "You won't talk? Nothing moves you? Out with it, once and for all.You're bound to tell me.
