Beowulf : An Anglo Saxon Hero
Beowulf could, more than easily, be described as a typical Anglo-Saxon hero. More likely he would be the model of one. The story of his life was a staple in the Anglo-Saxon society. There are four distinct traits that make up the Anglo-Saxon hero. The first is loyalty, as demonstrated by the relationship of Feudal Lord and Thane. This was a true part of the Anglo-Saxon society. It was conveyed by the word "Comitatus." This deemed that the thanes would pledge their lives to their Feudal Lord. They would defend their lord's life with their own; if they did not, it would be considered treason. Upon the death of their Feudal Lord, it would be their responsibility to defend his death. By not fulfilling all of the requirements of a Thane and Comitatus, they would be banished for life, and forced to wander the earth. Beowulf served as both a Thane and a Feudal Lord in his lifetime. Although he never was truly a Thane to King Hrothgar, he served under him to help protect his kingdom from a dragon who was terrorizing the area for more than 12 years. Later in his life he served as the Feuda
Finally the fourth trait would have to be the characterization of "fame." In the Anglo-Saxon society, the notion of fame was one of the most important part of everyday life. The only after life a warrior could ever aspire to have was immortality through fame. And Beowulf believed in this as well. He only sought out the monster Grendel in Hrothgar's Kingdom because he wanted the fame and notoriety. Upon his death he wanted to look upon the gold that he won by defeating the dragon. Him winning the gold is what he felt gave him the fame that he had wanted. By looking upon the gold when he died, he felt he would have an "easier" passing to the other side. When looking at the common traits of an Anglo-Saxon hero, anyone can see that Beowulf would be able to be classified as one. His traits, and characteristics are as strong, if not stronger than other Anglo-Saxon heroes of the time. He truly fits the profile with amazing precision. l Lord, or king, of Gaetland where he ruled for 50 peaceful years. He then had his own Thanes who did abandon him, and were ultimatel! The third trait would be courage. Any hero would
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 762
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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