Beowulf: A Brochure of the Anglo-Saxon Beliefs .

             Beowulf is a terrific example of a story that portrays the beliefs the Anglo-Saxon people. Their entire culture was based on heroism and loyalty. They encouraged heroic action in the face of doom and generously rewarded bravery. These charcteristics instilled a sense of courage and loyalty in many individuals. They also tries to imply the message that one should never give up, no matter how much the odds are against you. The importance of bravery, generousity, loyalty, and the King-warrior relationship can be seen in the epic Beouwulf. The heroic elements in the epic poem Beowulf are evident in the characters. Beowulf is depicted as a superhero. Beowulf takes it upon himself to save the Danes from Grendel. In his battle with Grendel, Beowulf chooses not to use weapons; he relies on his strength. During the fight, Beowulf's strength takes over and Beowulf wrestles with Grendel until he is able to rip one of the monster's arms out of its socket. Superhuman feats also appear in the fight with Grendel's mother. When Beowulf enters the water, he swims downward for an entire day before he sees the bottom. He does this without the use of oxygen. During the battle with Grendel's mother, Beowulf realizes that Unferth's sword is useless against the monsters thick skin. He grabs an enormous sword made by giants, almost too heavy to hold and slashes through the monster's body. Beowulf's spirit and teachings do not allow him to quit, even though he may die. The Anglo-Saxons use Beowulf as an example that thier soldiers should follow. Even though Beowulf posses super-human qualities, his victories are not won easily. He struggles just as much as those who do not posses super-human qualities. Even though Beowulf fought many monsters by himself, he would not have been able to accomplish any of those deeds without an extraordinary sense of heroism. The Anglo-Saxon Tradition encouraged heroic action in the face of doom and Beowulf lives up to their expectations.