* Beowulf's storytelling: Beowulf's actions are celebrated through song and poetry. He is essentially a legendary figure whose deeds are passed down through generations. This connects his name to the act of storytelling and preservation of history, key aspects of poetry.
* Wordplay and linguistic roots: While "Beowulf" doesn't directly mean "poet" in Old English, it does share etymological roots with the word "wolf". This could be seen as a subtle connection to the "poet" aspect, as wolves are often associated with storytelling and wisdom in ancient myths and folklore.
* The Bardic tradition: In Celtic cultures, bards were highly respected poets and storytellers who often served as historians, genealogists, and keepers of cultural knowledge. These bards often had connections to royal courts and were seen as powerful figures. This connection could be a nod to Beowulf's status as a warrior-hero, a figure who commands respect and embodies the values of his society.
Ultimately, the connection between Beowulf's name and "poet" is more of an interpretation rather than a direct translation. However, it speaks to the importance of storytelling and the preservation of history in the epic poem, and the potential connections between heroic deeds and the art of poetry.