Yes, because the story was not written with the first word as "So".
The use of “hwæt” has been mistranslated (Grimm through to Heaney's latest magnificent 2000 translation's flawed use of "So!"). NB your quote inserts a comma whereas Heaney used an exclamation mark. He was using 'So!' in the 'Listen in!' sense.
The original (OE) doesn’t try to say `Oi you, listen to this!’: “hwæt” invites the listeners to think 'how' (as in 'we have, haven't we?') they have heard of kings' greatness and courage in the past.
So, another misuse of 'so', and of considerable concern: I'm with the bloke from Luton here.
@lutonloony