The story of the sea monsters didn't come out until Unferth challenged Beowulf's abilities, so really it becomes more of a resume than a boast. Beowulf's purpose in talking about his adventures was not to glorify him, but rather to illustrate his capabilities. Beowulf heroically slays Grendel and becomes the target of his mother. Beowulf again succeeds in battle and then returns to Geatland, his home. Courage allowed Beowulf to face the monsters and gave him fame throughout the llands.
Beowulf becomes King of the Geats and is responsible for guiding his kingdom. During his 50-year rule, a dragon whose treasure was stolen attacks the kingdom. Beowulf and his servants, the thegns, attack the dragon but they cannot defeat him. The thegns retreat for safety, except for Wiglaf and Beowulf who display another characteristic of an epic hero, bravery, when they face the dragon on their own.
Beowulf is painted as a great hero before his name is even mentioned in the story, and this image does not falter against those of previous kings. we find that the narrator may be untrustworthy because King Hygelac states "I dreaded the outcome of your expedition and pleaded with you long and hard to leave the killer be, let the South-Danes settle their own blood-feud..." The foes that Beowulf fought were all beyond