Sample Close Reading Beowulf 16-25

The opening of the poem establishes the standards for a good king.  As in Paradise Lost, though, there is a tension between human agency and God's power. We are told that "behavior that's admired/is the path to power among people everywhere" (24-25). Such actions include "giving freely" (21) and being ready for "when fighting starts" (22).  This all appears to be directly within the leader's control, all that is necessary for one's name to be remembered. At the same time, we are told clearly, "the Lord of Life, the glorious Almighty, made this man renowned" (16-17). Here, the hero's actions are not the determining factor; rather it is God's will. 

NB: This close reading does not resolve the issue. As you're reading the poem look for clues that might resolve the dichotomy.