Thrytho.—Wife of Offa, king of the Angles. Known for her fierce and unwomanly disposition. She is introduced as a contrast to the gentle Hygd, queen of Higelac.—[28 42]; [28 56].
Unferth.—Son of Ecglaf, and seemingly a confidential courtier of Hrothgar. Taunts Beowulf for having taken part in the swimming-match. Lends Beowulf his sword when he goes to look for Grendel’s mother. In the MS. sometimes written Hunferth. [9 1]; [18 41].
Wæls.—Father of Sigemund.—[14 60].
Wægmunding.—A name occasionally applied to Wiglaf and Beowulf, and perhaps derived from a common ancestor, Wægmund.—[36 6]; [38 61].
Weders.—Another name for Geats or Wedergeats.
Wayland.—A fabulous smith mentioned in this poem and in other old Teutonic literature.—[7 83].
Wendels.—The people of Wulfgar, Hrothgar’s messenger and retainer. (Perhaps = Vandals.)—[6 30].
Wealhtheow.—Wife of Hrothgar. Her queenly courtesy is well shown in the poem.—[10 55].
Weohstan, or Wihstan.—A Wægmunding, and father of Wiglaf.—[36 1].
Whale’s Ness.—A prominent promontory, on which Beowulf’s mound was built.—[38 52]; [42 76].