Wiglaf

Wiglaf's Background
Wiglaf is a mighty (although secondary) character in the ancient Beowulf epic poem. Wiglaf is first mentioned in line 2602 of the Heaney translation of Beowulf. He is known as a "well-regarded" warrior, although this is the first time he is mentioned going into battle alongside Beowulf. He often gives long speeches to instill courage and boost morale in the men during the final battle against the dragon. Wiglaf is Beowulf's courageous side-kick. The image to the right shows Wiglaf in all his recreated glory, played by actor Brendan Gleeson in the 2007 Beowulf film.

=== Etymology === "Wiglaf" is a Germanic name derived from two separate phrases: "Wig" meaning "fight, battle, or war", and "Laf" meaning "who or what is left behind". His name references the fact that Wiglaf is the only character that remains by Beowulf's side in the final battle.

Strengths
Wiglaf is portrayed as a very brave warrior. He has a powerful way with words, as shown in his many lines of dialogue throughout the final part of the epic. Beowulf entrusts Wiglaf with the duty of becoming King of the Geats, a huge responsibility, so he must have earned Beowulf's trust. Wiglaf defines the warrior's code of conduct: win the fight or die trying. He makes it clear in his brief appearance that he would give anything (even his life) in battle. Honor and dignity mean everything to him. He lives by the phrase "Death before dishonor."

Weaknesses
In the epic Beowulf, Wiglaf shows no weaknesses. However, many scholars debate this. Some argue that another interpretation of the epic poem says that Wiglaf does, in fact, flee from the final battle with the other warriors. Of course, it's assumed that he's far away from the battle when he lectures the other deserters. This could be explained by the alternative translation. In this interpretation, he flees with the other men and then remembers the bravery and kinship of his father, Weohstan. This brings him immense feelings of guilt and remorse, and he tries to convince the other warriors to return to Beowulf's side. When this fails, Wiglaf returns alone. His fleeing can be seen as a weakness, a momentary lapse in bravery. If this interpretation is taken to heart, it is sure to have haunted Wiglaf for the rest of his days. It is certainly a terrible time to have a weakness, as Beowulf is left behind to fight the dragon alone, a battle which would prove fatal.

Role in the Beowulf Epic
Wiglaf plays an important role in Beowulf in the final parts. He fights alongside Beowulf to the very end. Beowulf, on his death bed, grants Wiglaf his "collar of gold", his chainmail, and helmet. He asks Wiglaf to construct a pyre and honor Beowulf in his death. He also asks that Wiglaf bring the gold and riches that they fought the dragon over to his side, so that he may see the fruits of his fatal labor before he passes.

Outside of being Beowulf's best friend, Wiglaf also reprimands the men who deserted their king in his hour of need. He calls the weapons bestowed upon the warriors by Beowulf "useless", as they were not used, even to defend the King. He practically banishes the men, saying that "A warrior will sooner die than live a life of shame." (Heaney 2890-2891).