The Beowulf poet reveals the theme of loyal dependency through symbolism

Although Beowulf is under no obligation to do so, he demonstrates his loyalty to Hrothgar by willingly fighting to the death in order to defend the Danes against the evil monster Grendel. Winning victoriously, Beowulf proudly displays Grendel's shoulder and arm by hanging it from Heorot's rafters for everyone to see. This trophy with "Every nail, claw-scale and spur, every spike and welt... like barbed steel," (lines 983-986) symbolizes the evil that has threatened the harmony of Hrothgar's retainers from being able to protect Heorot and their lord. When Hrothgar gazes upon Grendel's ta…