Hrothgar's speech and Plot connections in Beowulf

Hrothgar’s Speech and Plot Connections

The plot of Beowulf can be looked at in three parts. These three parts consist of Beowulf killing Grendel, then Beowulf killing Grendel’s mother, and finally with Beowulf being defeated by the dragon. Hrothgar’s speech at the celebration following Beowulf’s defeat of Grendel, serves not only as a foreshadowing and warning to Beowulf, but it also seems to mirror the three parts of the plot.
The beginning of Hrothgar’s speech pays tribute to “Almighty God” and how he empowers some men with enormous physical strength and wisdom in order that they may have a “happy life”. Hrothgar warns Beowulf, in his speech, about taking these powers for granted, having too much confidence, and of the limitations of mortal man. Hrothgar goes on to give an example of his strength at the height of his power in his speech. Hrothgar begins this part of the spee...