The "slack" Beowulf, like the sluggish Brutus, ultimately reveals
his true character, and is presented with a
historic
sword of honor.
Beowulf
73; S., _Beit._ x. 222; and cf. l.
2166.
l. 2188. Gr., W., H. supply [wēn]don, = _weened_, instead of Th.'s [oft
sæg]don.
l. 2188.
The "slack" Beowulf, like the sluggish Brutus, ultimately reveals
his true character, and is presented with a
historic
sword of honor.
It is
"laid on his breast" (l. 2195) as Hun laid Lāfing on Hengest's breast, l.
1145.
l. 2188. "The boy was at first slothful, and the Geats thought him an
unwarlike prince, and long despised him. Then, like many a lazy third son
in the folk tales, a change came, he suddenly showed wonderful daring and
was passionate for adventure."--Br., p. 22.
l. 2196. "Seven of thousands, manor and lordship" (Ha.). Kl.
