Monday, October 1, 2012

In the epic poem Beowulf, what are some Anglo-Saxon virtues and how does Beowulf protrays them and qualify as an epic hero?

Below is a list of important Anglo-Saxon values, and a
brief description of how Beowulf fits each
one:


  1. Loyalty:
    Beowulf fought for his king and king Hrothgar, avenged his kinsmen (the many who died
    whom he didn't even know), and kept his
    word.

  2. Generosity: gifts
    symbolized bonds and Beowulf brought back many riches for Hrothgar and Hygelac (his own
    king)

  3. Brotherly love:
    Beowolf is not a love story between a man and a woman, but rather,
    a man and his people, or his country.  Beowulf's relationship with his own men shows
    botherly love.

  4. Heroism:
    Beowulf possesses the basic ideals of a hero - physical strength, skill and
    resourcefulness in battle, courage,
    etc.

  5. Public reputation: in
    Anglo-Saxon times, things were done for fame, and this was not shameful.  Men were not
    heroes in order to satisfy a sense of private conscience, they wanted to become known
    for their deeds.  Beowulf's reputation precedes him all the way to Hrothgar's Herot. 
    Also, when he seems to be bragging in front of Unferth, he is really just setting his
    story straight.

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