Here are some key ways in which the brave characters are contrasted with the cowardly character Unferth:
1. Courage vs. Fear: The brave characters, like Beowulf, are fearless and willing to face any challenge, no matter how daunting. They embrace danger and seek glory through their heroic deeds. Unferth, on the other hand, is characterized by fear and cowardice. He avoids direct confrontation and resorts to taunting and belittling others to compensate for his lack of courage.
2. Strength vs. Weakness: The brave characters are physically and mentally strong. Beowulf possesses immense physical strength, which he demonstrates in his battles with Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon. He also displays emotional resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Unferth, on the other hand, lacks physical and emotional strength. He is easily intimidated and quick to doubt the abilities of others.
3. Loyalty vs. Betrayal: The brave characters are fiercely loyal to their kin, their lord, and their people. Beowulf exemplifies loyalty by coming to the aid of Hrothgar and the Danes when they are in dire need. He remains steadfast in his support and fulfills his promises. Unferth, however, exhibits disloyalty and treachery. He is jealous of Beowulf's accomplishments and resorts to underhanded tactics to undermine his reputation.
4. Honor vs. Dishonor: The brave characters are honorable and uphold the values of their society. Beowulf values glory, reputation, and the preservation of his honor. He acts with integrity and seeks to earn the respect and admiration of his peers. Unferth, in contrast, is dishonorable and lacks integrity. He spreads rumors and tries to discredit Beowulf's achievements, tarnishing his own reputation in the process.
By contrasting the brave characters with the cowardly character Unferth, the poem Beowulf emphasizes the importance of virtues such as courage, strength, loyalty, and honor. It highlights the stark difference between those who embrace these values and those who succumb to fear and self-interest, ultimately shaping the moral compass of the narrative and reinforcing the heroic ideals that Beowulf embodies.