The Finn Digression

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The Finn Digression
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Summary

• Finn, a Frisian (may have been a sub-tribe of the
  Jutes), and his warriors attack Danish King Hnaf
  in Hnafs own mead-hallIt is a sneak attack.

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

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

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

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

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Purposes

• Stresses the themes of revenge, wergild,
  political marriage.

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

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Foreshadowing

• Freaws (Hrothgars daughter) marriage to Ingeld,
  the Hathobard. This is an attempt to bring peace
  to the two nationsit does not work.

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• 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.

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• Higlacs death by the Frisians

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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?