I believe that Beowulf is selfish to an extent with his desires. But when you think about it, wouldn't you be too if you had to do the things he did?
"And a young prince must be prudent like that,giving freely while his father lives so that afterwards in age when fighting starts steadfast companions will stand by himand hold the line. Behaviour that’s admired is the path to power among people everywhere." (20-25)
Killing thousands of people and creatures and traveling though such horrid lands is so taxing and demanding.
"they looked down at the lake...watched the waves' blood-stained swirling..." (1422-1425)
"the kind that infest the ocean, in the early Dawn, often ending some ship's joureny with their wild jaws." (1428-1430)
I know if I was in his position I would want some recognition for it too! He does these acts not only for himself but also for the person asking for is help. He doesnt want to let them down so he trys his best to get the job done and if he just so happens to reack some extra benefits from it, so be it!
