Textuality » 3A Interacting
Beowulf's extract
Pag 57
Lines 1- 16
Connotative Analysis
In these first lines the most important character is Beowulf. He is introduced to the reader who obtains information about him. Beowulf's most important qualities are: mightiness, power, solidarity, generosity and a strategic way of thinking.
Beowulf has also got a God- like nature and a positive connotation. On Earth there is no one like him. He is also courageous and he is also a leader. Nobody tried to keep him from going to help King Hygelac. He ordered immediately a boat that would ply the waves. Another important characteristic of our hero is the fidelity to his king, or chief. He is, first of all, a royal vassal and King Hygelac's nephew.
From the linguistic point of view there are two particular expressions: to ply the waves and the swan's road. The first one means to sail well and the second is a kenning to represent the sea.