The Last Bloke Standing
: Why Wiglaf is More Than Just a Sidekick
Alright, let's talk about Wiglaf. You might think he's just Beowulf's loyal little mate, tagging along for the ride. But bugger me, he's absolutely pivotal to the whole blooming poem! He's not just preserving Beowulf's gongs and gear; he's the fella keeping the flame of the heroic code flickering when everyone else is legging it.
Here's the lowdown: while all the other so-called warriors are wetting themselves at the sight of the dragon, Wiglaf, bless his brave heart, wades in. This isn't just about helping Beowulf in a scrap; it's about upholding that sacred comitatus bond – the reciprocal loyalty between a lord and his warriors. It's the glue that holds the whole blessed society together, and everyone else has just let it dissolve like a sugar cube in hot tea.
Wiglaf, in a nutshell, is the shining example of what a warrior should be. He's the foil to those lily-livered shirkers, highlighting just how far the Geatish kingdom has fallen. He steps up, inherits Beowulf's kit (symbolically, at least, as there's no direct heir), and becomes the spiritual successor.
But it's not all heroic derring-do. Wiglaf also gets to deliver the painful truth after Beowulf snuffs it. He rips into the cowardly thanes, reminding them of their oaths and basically saying, "Look what you sods have done! You've left us exposed, vulnerable, and looking like total arseholes." This isn't just a personal tragedy; it's the beginning of the end for the Geats, and Wiglaf is the one who spells it out.
And then, the barrow. Building that monumental burial mound on the coast isn't just a nice gesture. It's a deliberate act to ensure Beowulf's memory endures. It's a massive stone finger to history, saying, "He was a hero, remember that, you feckless lot."
So, yes, Wiglaf is absolutely crucial. He's the man who remembers, the man who acts, and the man who delivers the harsh truth about the decline of the heroic age.
Is Heroism Sustainable? On Your Bike!
Now, this is where things get a bit bleak, frankly. Does Beowulf suggest that this whole heroic schtick is something that can last? The short answer, I'm afraid, is probably "nah, not really." While Wiglaf puts in a sterling effort, the overwhelming feeling at the end of the poem is one of decline and impending doom.
Let's look at the evidence, shall we?
The Comitatus Goes Tits Up: As we've seen, the cornerstone of the heroic code – loyalty – is completely abandoned by most of Beowulf's warriors. If the very foundation is crumbling, what hope is there for the rest of the structure?
Wiglaf's Gloomy Prognosis: Wiglaf's speech after the fight isn't just a bollocking; it's a lament for a dying world. He sees the writing on the wall – the Geats are vulnerable, their reputation is in tatters, and brighter days seem a long way off.
The Bloody Hoard: The dragon's treasure hoard is a bit of a red herring, isn't it? It represents all the shiny stuff of the past, hoarded and ultimately leading to destruction. Beowulf's desire for it, noble as his intentions might be, contributes to his demise. It's almost as if the poem is saying that clinging to past glories, to the idea of heroic wealth and fame, is ultimately destructive and unsustainable.
The Funeral Pyre: The Final Curtain: The detailed description of Beowulf's funeral isn't just a send-off; it's a grand, fiery conclusion. Everything goes up in smoke – the hero, his treasures, the end of an era. It's pretty definitive stuff.
Wiglaf, the Caretaker: While admirable, Wiglaf doesn't exactly strike you as the next Beowulf, does he? He's a great fella, loyal and brave, but the poem doesn't paint him as a charismatic leader who can rekindle the heroic spirit across the whole kingdom. He's more of a caretaker, left to pick up the pieces.
Of course, there are nuances. You could argue that Wiglaf represents a flicker of hope, a reminder that these values canexist in individuals. And the poem itself, by telling Beowulf's story, keeps the memory of heroism alive for us, the readers. Perhaps the scop (the poet) was hoping that his tale would inspire subsequent generations, even if he was a bit pessimistic about the immediate future of the Geats.
But ultimately, Beowulf doesn't offer a warm and fuzzy, "and they all lived heroically ever after" ending. It's a powerful, slightly melancholic reflection on the passing of an age, a reminder of what once was, rather than a happy blueprint for saving the day and keeping the heroic flame burning bright for centuries to come. It's a bit of a wake-up call, really. Don't be a cowardly sod like those thanes, remember the importance of loyalty and courage, because once they're gone, they might just be gone for good.
Right, that's enough pontificating for one day. Time for another brew. Cheerio!
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