In the Hero's Journey, who serves as the mentor figure for Beowulf?

• A. Beowulf
• B. Hrothgar
• C. Wiglaf
• D. Unferth

Answer: (B)

In the Hero’s Journey, the mentor is the elder guide who helps prepare the hero, offering wisdom, legitimacy, and support for the quest. Hrothgar fits this role for Beowulf: as the Danish king, he provides the context and stakes of the mission against Grendel, speaks to Beowulf’s duty to protect the people, and grants Beowulf the opportunity to prove himself. This guidance and legitimization help set Beowulf on his path and shape his sense of responsibility as a leader.

Beowulf himself is the hero, Wiglaf is the faithful ally who aids in the final battle, and Unferth is more of a challenger who tests Beowulf rather than guiding him. So the mentor figure in this journey is Hrothgar.