Beowulf arrives at King Hrothgar’s because he has heard about their
problems with the monster Grendal. Beowulf’s epic warrior reputation precedes him
which poses a threat, literally and figuratively, to Unferth’s previously-undisputed place
in Hrothgar’s hierarchy of being sort of a bard or soothsayer (line 499). Unferth is
envious, or shall we say jealous, of Beowulf’s reputation for bravery. Beowulf has
offered to slay Grendal, something Unferth has not been able to do.
Unferth challenges Beowulf (line 506) and brings up a long-ago story in front of
everyone about Beowulf’s swimming contest with someone named Breca. For all to hear,
Unferth tries to discredit Beowulf to all who ...
