Masculinity In Beowulf

Men dominate both the society in the epic of Beowulf and that in the tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Even so, their control is limited insofar as they are expected to abide by well-engrained moral codes. While the heroic code of Heorot focusses on pride, tribal relations and generosity, the chivalric code of Camelot values humility, feudal relations and courtesy, differences that reflect the natural evolution of morality that has occurred between the writing of the two tales. The Spear-Danes have a male-dominated society and an accompanying code of conduct, of which boastfulness is an essential element. When Beowulf first arrives at Heorot, he is challenged by the coast guard, who asks "what kind of men are you who arrive / rigged out for combat in your coats of mail…?" (Beowulf 237-238). In response, Beowulf explains that he has "come to proffer / [his] wholehearted help and …show more content…
As king, Hrothgar's first responsibility is to protect his people. As such, he is devastated when he witnesses the slaughter of his people by the monster Grendel; As he is unable to defend his people, he has failed one of the tribe's most fundamental values. Alliances and feuds between tribes are also prevalent. Seemingly, characters must identify themselves on the basis of tribe of origin. When Beowulf first arrives at the coast near Heorot, he introduces his tribe to the coast guard, saying "we belong by birth to the Geat people / and owe allegiance to Lord Hygelac" (Beowulf 260-261). Tribal titles are used throughout the text; King Horthgar is often referred to as the protector or prince of the Shieldings, and Beowulf as the leader of the Geats. Evidently, a large emphasis is placed on the importance of one's tribe. To further develop this notion, the antagonist Grendel represents an existence without tribal loyalties; one that is lonely and