Analysis Of The Vikings In The Battle Of Teddy

In lines 42-67, Byrthnōð is depicted as a figure of heroism through his adamant refusal to comply to the demands of the Vikings, showcasing the Anglo-Saxon idealistic portrayal of bravery, honour and a warrior’s fealty towards their lords. Through the use of a variety of linguistic elements, the poet highlight the differences between Byrthnōð and the Vikings and stresses that one must remain loyal to their lord in the face of an precarious situation. In this essay, I will discuss the poetic techniques and linguistic choices the poet employs to portray these ideals in The Battle of Maldon.

The implication of Danegeld infuriates Byrthnōð as the poet emphatically stresses how Byrthnōð responds to the messenger with the emotive adjectives, yrre …show more content…
The prospect of Danegeld that is presented by the messenger bolsters the impression that the Vikings are using a cowardly approach to control the Anglo-Saxons, a stark contrast to Byrthnōð’s outspoken attitude. Furthermore, the refusal to reveal themselves to Byrthnōð also suggests that the Vikings are attempting to impose their sense of superiority over the Anglo-Saxons instead of regarding the latter as an equal. This applies an elusive characteristic with the Vikings in comparison to the direct, confrontational nature of the Anglo-Saxons that are perpetrated through Byrthnōð. In this extract, the presence of a messenger instead of a reputable Viking does not frighten Byrthnōð, which is shown when he boldly states that the people would tribute ættrynne ord and ealde swurd (p. 252, l. 47) in response to the commands of the Vikings. The pre-modifying adjectives ‘ættrynne’ and ‘ealde’ reveals the ineffectual properties of the items Byrthnōð presents as a testament to the futile attempt to buy the loyalty of Byrthnōð. Furthermore, the focus on the value of the items reveals Byrthnōð’s lack of respect towards the Vikings due to their lethargic approach to intimidate Byrthnōð and his