(2139) “…a gem-studded sword in the Geat treasury. This laid on Beowulf’s lap and then rewarded him…”
The sword here represents something bigger; Hygelac’s trust. The reason it is given to Beowulf is because Hygelac is “giving his trust to Beowulf,” or putting his trust in him. Which means Hygelac knows that Beowulf is going to be king very soon and that he will need it to get him through many battles, as it has done for him. It’s the King’s way of telling Beowulf that he trusts him to take over his people when he passes. Which really means something, since he gives the sword to Beowulf and not his own son.
Yes - good!
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