Question

What does Ecglaf's son, Unferth, do that causes him to fall "short of glory and the honor of court?"

a) Unferth shows great bravery in battle
b) Unferth insults Beowulf's courage and heroism
c) Unferth receives praise for his poetic talents
d) Unferth demonstrates loyalty and humility

Answer 1

In the epic poem Beowulf, Unferth falls short of glory and honour because he insults Beowulf's courage and heroism, an action frowned upon in their warrior culture.

Step-by-step explanation:

The character of Unferth in the epic poem Beowulf causes him to fall 'short of the glory and the honour of court' not because of cowardice in battle or lack of talent, but due to his behaviour towards Beowulf. Unferth insults Beowulf's courage and heroism, which is an action that garners disapproval in the warrior culture depicted in the poem. Instead of illustrating bravery or loyalty, Unferth's words show competitiveness and scepticism, which are not celebrated traits in the context of the poem.