The poem Beowulf accurately exhibits the principal structure and values of Anglo-Saxon society. In the poem, there is no distinction between myth and history, yet many elements of the epic accurately reflect aspects of the Anglo-Saxon period. However, the poem is not anachronistic, in that it confronts trans generational issues, which are still significant today. It is particularly fascinating that so much about the customs of a particular culture can be learned from this single poem. For example, the threat of warfare, a regular part of Anglo-Saxon life, is clearly present throughout the poem. In Beowulf, the main theme revolves around warfare, which is illustrated by the number of feuds and clan fealty in the poem.
However, the structure of warfare in Anglo-Saxon society does not simply involve combat, but also the respect and tribute to laudable efforts of individuals, and the adulation of amity and peacekeeping through the rule of kings. The cycle of warfare is evident in the poem; victory triggers a desire for revenge, and feud brings upon further feud. The relationship between the king and his people is also particularly significant to further understanding the dynamics of Anglo-Saxon society. There is a symbiotic relationship, in which the king’s populace protects him, his land, and fight wars in exchange for such items as swords, helmets, gold, mead, and shelter. Furthermore, the poem also demonstrates the importance of art, and the value placed on weapon craft in early Anglo-Saxon culture. This is markedly exemplified by the intricately decorated sword or “tool of war’ used by Beowulf in the poem.
The Term Paper on The Anglo Saxon Period
The Anglo Saxon period is the oldest known period of time that had a complex culture with stable government, art, and a fairly large amount of literature. Many people believe that the culture then was extremely unsophisticated, but it was actually extremely advanced for the time. Despite the many advancements, the period was almost always in a state of war. Despite this fact, the Anglo-Saxon ...
The sword symbolizes the worth of a warrior. The significance of this weapon craft is also illustrated by the personal names that were given to swords, such as, Unferth’s sword, “Hrunting’. These pieces of artisanship were often heirlooms passed from generation to generation, and possessed adornments, which characterized legends, such as the sword of Eoten’s that Beowulf reclaimed from Grendel’s liar. The poem Beowulf also demonstrates the Anglo-Saxon value of vengeance; a crude sense of justice, the “wergild’ or man price reveals their desire for equity. The substantial value placed on kinship ultimately expects that if one’s kin is murdered, it is the remaining family’s responsibility to make the murderer forfeit either with his life, or the payment of “wergild’. Finally, the presence of fate in the poem reflects Anglo-Saxon society’s belief in the power of destiny.
The heroic character, Beowulf, clearly illustrates this aspect in the poem. Not only does he relentlessly test fate, but he also harbors a belief that through bravery he can become immortal in the minds of those who will follow his path. Despite the courage and valor that Beowulf possessed, he still held a fervent belief in the omnipotent existence of “wyrd’ or fate. “When we crossed the sea, my comrades and I, I already knew that all my purpose was this: to win the good will of your people or die in battle, pressed in Grendel’s fierce grip.
Let me live in greatness and courage, or here in this hall welcome my death!’.
