Does Beowulf bragg

Answer 1

Beowulf most definitely braggs, it was part of the custom of the pre-medieval European tribal cultures. As a warrior, bragging is a way of letting other men know his worth. Boasting of deeds he has done and how great he is elevates his apparent glory.

In turn it is seen amongst such cultures that other men will contest the value of the deeds. This can be seen in Unferth's (of Hrothgars hall) actions. Unferth does not deny that Beowulf swam in the great swimming race but tries to belittle it as stupid childish risk taking. Beowulf counters by explaining how awesome he was when everything went wrong for him in the race and then derides Unferth by implying he has done nothing to further his own glory but to kill of his own kinsmen (or something like that it's been a while since I've read or listened to Beowulf but I have read 2 translations and listened to an audio version of a third.)

Answer 2

Yes, Beowulf does boast about his strength and abilities, especially before battle. His boasting is seen as a way to demonstrate his confidence and establish his reputation as a formidable warrior.