In Chapter 21 of Beowulf, litotes is used as a rhetorical device to convey meaning through understatement. Litotes is a figure of speech that employs negative descriptions to affirm a positive statement, often by negating its opposite.
For example, instead of saying that someone is ‘brave,’ an author might use litotes to state, ‘He is not afraid.’ This technique adds a layer of complexity to the text, allowing readers to grasp the nuances of the characters and their actions.
In this chapter, Beowulf’s feats are often described in such a way that emphasizes his heroism through subtlety. By employing litotes, the poet creates a contrast that enriches the narrative, making Beowulf’s achievements stand out even more. It draws attention to the qualities of the hero in a way that feels both humble and grand at the same time.