The epic of Beowulf is widely considered to be one of the most important surviving examples of Old English literature. The poem was recorded by an unknown Anglo-Saxon author at some point between the eighth and eleventh century. It is the longest and most famous Germanic epic poem and offers a valid account of how early medieval society would have functioned. The society portrayed in Beowulf is one of warriors and kings; it is honour-based and places significant importance on societal roles, expectations, and reputation. The purpose of this essay is to analyze how this society is illustrated through the characters and events of the poem.
The poem follows Beowulf, a famed Germanic hero, as he takes on several beasts of legend and navigates …show more content…
Family history is highly valued as a source of reputation, and characters are often introduced by listing their genealogy, but individual reputation is equally important. An individual who has impressive ancestors is expected to live up to their lineage by leading a successful life. However, an individual who does not have a known family history is still expected to show their ability by cultivating a good individual reputation; for example, Shield Sheafson is described as an orphan who proves his worth and flourishes into a highly famed king of the Danes (Beowulf 4-11). Furthermore, fictive kinship bonds, which signaled a relationship of great trust and respect, held considerable importance and also spoke well of one’s reputation. This kind of bond is displayed when Hrothgar expresses his gratitude for Beowulf’s assistance in dealing with Grendel, and adopts Beowulf as a son “in his heart” (Beowulf 945-49). Men could increase their reputation by living in accordance with the heroic code.
The men of Beowulf’s time are expected to abide by this code. The heroic code values traits such as strength, courage, and honour. Men who display these traits and live by the code are seen as honourable and are respected as great warriors. Men who fail to exhibit these traits are seen as cowards. When Beowulf sets out to fight the dragon, all but one of his party abandons
The poem follows Beowulf, a famed Germanic hero, as he takes on several beasts of legend and navigates …show more content…
Family history is highly valued as a source of reputation, and characters are often introduced by listing their genealogy, but individual reputation is equally important. An individual who has impressive ancestors is expected to live up to their lineage by leading a successful life. However, an individual who does not have a known family history is still expected to show their ability by cultivating a good individual reputation; for example, Shield Sheafson is described as an orphan who proves his worth and flourishes into a highly famed king of the Danes (Beowulf 4-11). Furthermore, fictive kinship bonds, which signaled a relationship of great trust and respect, held considerable importance and also spoke well of one’s reputation. This kind of bond is displayed when Hrothgar expresses his gratitude for Beowulf’s assistance in dealing with Grendel, and adopts Beowulf as a son “in his heart” (Beowulf 945-49). Men could increase their reputation by living in accordance with the heroic code.
The men of Beowulf’s time are expected to abide by this code. The heroic code values traits such as strength, courage, and honour. Men who display these traits and live by the code are seen as honourable and are respected as great warriors. Men who fail to exhibit these traits are seen as cowards. When Beowulf sets out to fight the dragon, all but one of his party abandons