Anglo Saxon Values free essay sample

In the book Beowulf, Beowulf, a Norse thane from Geatland becomes a legend after committing heroic deeds and overcoming impossible obstacles. The book Beowulf expresses the values of Anglo- Saxon culture. One value that it demonstrates is loyalty. In addition, the book also exemplifies the Anglo- Saxon value of courage. Another Anglo Saxon value which the book depicts is the desire for fame and riches. Loyalty is crucial to the story of Beowulf. During the second half of the book, Beowulf becomes the king of the Geats after the former leader; Hygelac is killed during a battle with a rival tribe. As the king of the Geats, Beowulf becomes responsible for not only the management of the kingdom, but he is also responsible for protecting it from those who wish it harm. After being robbed by a petty thief, a dragon became enraged and devastated the Geat countryside. Beowulf had been greatly affected after hearing of the dragon’s devastation as seen in this quote. We will write a custom essay sample on Anglo Saxon Values or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page His mind was in turmoil Unaccustomed anxiety and gloom confused his brain The fire dragon razed the coastal region and reduced forts and earthworks to dust and ashes So the war-king planned and plotted his revenge (Beowulf 2330-2336) From this quote, it is clear that Beowulf cared greatly for his people and was deeply affected after hearing of the state of his kingdom. Also, it shows that although Beowulf was in a state of emotional instability, he was motivated to fight in order to eradicate the creature who has been doing harm to his people. To sum it up, Beowulf’s loyalty to his people had portrayed the Anglo Saxon value of loyalty. Another value which was expressed in the book was courage. In Anglo-Saxon culture, actions were more meaningful than words. Beowulf had proved this to be true. This can be seen when he is about to fight Grendel. Shortly before the fight with Grendel, Beowulf says When it comes to fighting I count myself as dangerous as any day as Grendel So it won’t be a cutting edge I’ll wield to mow him down Easily as I might (Beowulf 676-680) From this quote, it is expressed that not only is Beowulf courageous, but it also expresses that he is also brave and is eager to overcome any challenge. These traits are desired in Anglo-Saxon society, for it not only shows that someone is unafraid, but it also shows that the person is willing to achieve the impossible. Overall, the Anglo Saxon value of courage was expressed in the book when Beowulf is willing to fight Grendel without using a man-made weapon. The Anglo-Saxons had many values, but the value which they were most known for is their desire for fame and riches. Throughout the book, Beowulf sets out to prove himself against and insurmountable odds in order to gain reputation for his lineage and gather riches which will benefit his people. This can be seen in the book Beowulf when Beowulf says this quote. Go now quickly Dearest Wiglaf, under the grey stone Where the dragon is laid out, lost to his treasure; Hurry to feat your eyes on the hoard. Away you go: I want to examine That ancient gold, gaze my fill On those garnered jewels; my going will be easier For having seen the treasure, a less troubled letting-go Of the life and lordship I have long maintained (Beowulf 2744-2751) As seen in this quote, Beowulf, a noble and chivalrous king, asks for the riches of the dragon’s hoard in order to comfort him in his final minutes. This shows his desire of riches. The only reason he is comforted by the riches is that he will die knowing that he has contributed something to his defenseless and vulnerable kingdom before he dies. This last motive has turned a value that had seemed greedy at first to something noble and kind, which is a fit description for someone like Beowulf. Anglo-Saxon values were portrayed in the book Beowulf. The Anglo-Saxon value of loyalty was depicted by Beowulf as he faced the dragon in order to protect his kingdom. In addition, the Anglo-Saxon value of courage was depicted when Beowulf fearlessly challenged Grendel without the use of a weapon. Also, the Anglo-Saxon value of a desire for fame and riches was shown when Beowulf needed the comfort of the dragon’s hoard during his final minutes. Overall, the book Beowulf was not only successful in expressing the values of the Anglo-Saxons, but it had also shown the diverse and unique characteristics of Anglo-Saxon society. To this day, Beowulf is a widely read book that has entertained many readers and informed them of an ancient culture that was unlike any other.