What conflicting emotions does the seafarer feel when he sets off on a sea voyage?

In Old English poetry, particularly "The Seafarer," the seafarer sets off on a sea voyage with conflicting emotions. These emotions often reflect the dual nature of the sea as a source of both awe and danger. Here are some of the conflicting emotions the seafarer experiences:

1. Joy and Eagerness:

The seafarer may feel a sense of excitement and anticipation at the prospect of setting off on a sea voyage. The allure of the unknown, the promise of adventure, and the opportunity for gains can fill the seafarer with a sense of joy.

2. Fear and Apprehension:

At the same time, the seafarer cannot ignore the inherent risks and dangers of a sea voyage. The vastness and unpredictability of the sea, coupled with the ever-present threat of storms and sea monsters, can evoke a deep sense of fear and apprehension.

3. Nostalgia for Home:

The seafarer may feel a longing for the comforts of home and the loved ones left behind. The prospect of being away from familiar shores and the sense of isolation on the open sea can lead to feelings of nostalgia and homesickness.

4. Resolve and Duty:

Despite these fears and emotions, the seafarer feels a sense of resolve and duty to embark on the voyage. Honor, necessity, or the desire to prove oneself as a skilled navigator could motivate the seafarer to overcome their reservations.

5. Awe and Wonder:

The beauty and majesty of the sea can inspire a sense of awe and wonder in the seafarer. The vastness of the ocean and the ever-changing seascape can evoke a sense of connection to the natural world.

6. Loneliness and Isolation:

The solitary nature of a sea voyage can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This can be amplified by the vast expanses of the sea and the long stretches of time without encountering land or human contact.

7. Desire for Reward and Gain:

The promise of rewards and gain, such as wealth or a successful journey, can motivate the seafarer to face the hardships of the voyage. This desire can provide a sense of purpose and drive amidst the challenges.

8. Trust in Fate and Divine Protection:

In a time of limited understanding and control over nature's forces, the seafarer may seek comfort and put trust in fate or divine protection. This can help them find strength in the face of uncertainty and potential danger.

These conflicting emotions create a complex inner conflict within the seafarer, capturing the essence of the challenges and allure of seafaring in Old English poetry.