The Finn Digression

Summary Finn, a Frisian (may have been a sub-tribe of the Jutes), and his warriors attack Danish King Hnaf in Hnaf’s own mead-hall—It is a sneak attack.

Hnaf’s sister (or daughter depending on translation) named Hildeburh is married to Finn, thus this is a violation of a sacred trust, the political marriage.

Hildeburh loses her brother Hnaf and her own son in the battle.

Hildeburh’s other brother Hengest becomes Danish King and is offered peace by Finn (who was unable to win); they divide the kingdom and treasure.

Hengest is really out for revenge Hengest is really out for revenge. He waits until spring and then kills Finn.

Purposes: Stresses the themes of revenge, wergild, political marriage.

Like Hermod, Finn is an example of an unwise and treacherous ruler Like Hermod, Finn is an example of an unwise and treacherous ruler. He is contrasted w/ Beowulf, Hrothgar, Higlac, Shild, etc.

Foreshadowing: Freaw’s (Hrothgar’s daughter) marriage to Ingeld, the Hathobard. This is an attempt to bring peace to the two nations—it does not work.

Welthow asks her nephew Hrothulf to look after her two sons Hrethric and Hrothmond after her death. Later, he kills Hrethric in an attempt to become king.

Higlac’s death by the Frisians

Questions: What does this say about the role of women or of changes to the old vengeance code? Why does the vengeance code retain such a hold on people's actions?