Beowulf: Selfish or Not?

There is a fine line between a demeanor with bold confidence and just acting plain selfish. Without a doubt, Beowulf is flirting with this line. According to Beowulf, "He who can earn it should fight for the glory of his name; fame after death is the noblest of goals,"(1387-1389). At first glance this remark may seem to only perpetuate selfishness. However, we must remember that this story is set in a time period much different from ours. Fame and glory were two keystones to life that people set out to achieve. In actuality, Beowulf is not that much different than other people during this period. At times, Beowulf absolutely pushes the limit of confidence, but he is not acting selfishly.
Another aspect of this scenario we must consider is that Beowulf is putting himself in danger to ensure the safety of people he does not even know. Is bravery is unparalleled. People should envy his courageousness, and be thankful for it; for if Beowulf did not come to Hrothgar's kingdom, people's lives would still be at risk. Beowulf's actions of bravery, like when he battled Grendel without any weapons, nearly contradicts the definition of selfish. Although he is definitely confident, Beowulf is not selfish.