What Was On The Sails Of Beowulf’S Ship?

In the story, the Viking ship described is likely a long ship made of wood, foaming through the sea like a bird. The ship sails over the waves, making it fast for raiding and war. The Vikings built fast ships for raiding and war, known as longships. The ship was equipped with sails, oars, weapons, and armor for the men. Beowulf, one of the crew members, sails to the land of the Danes to help the Spear-Danes, a Viking culture that originated in Sweden.

Beowulf prepares a ship and chooses 14 brave warriors to accompany him. They set sail for Denmark, arriving the next day at Heorot. The Geats are welcomed by the ship, which is broad-beamed and high-stemmed with spiralling figurehead carvings. The ship sails over the waves, under the cliffs, and is ready for what comes. The wave-floaters journey is not hindered by wind over waves, as the seas beat at the sand.

The Vikings used different materials for their sails, with flax and wool being the most important. A man cunning in knowledge of the sea led them to the shore. As time passed, the ship was on the waves, the boat beneath the cliff. The warriors eagerly climbed on the prow, and the sea currents eddied, sea against sand.

Upon the headland, the Geats erected a broad high tumulus visible to distant seaman within the barrows. The story highlights the importance of Viking ships and their ability to navigate through the sea and win fame.