Beowulf Poem Analysis

Beowulf is an old English story whose author is unknown in modern times. The story itself was written in the old English period where languages were a topic that was constantly evolving. Specifically, Beowulf’s original text language was inspired by that of the Anglo-Saxons. The Anglo-Saxons were a culturalculture minority during the middle ages that subsided in England, and their language family mostly consists of English, German, and Anglic. Due to the way as well as when Beowulf was written, the Anglo-Saxon language tends to be very prominent in the writing style. A lot of tThe Saxon culture itself was also influenced by Scandinavian traditions w. Whether it was the language as well, or the loyalty the people had towards their rulers.

The Anglo-Saxon culture is not the only culture that has an effect, Germanic traditions often played a role as well. In the beginning of the story, it discusses how the warriors met in Heorot hall to play music as well as eat and celebratecelebrated (Lines 3-5, pg. 6 PDF). OftentimesOften times, Germansgermans tend to find joy in huge celebrations through the use of food but also music and drinking (lines 31-32, pg. 7 PDF). Another factor that played a role within this story is the Christian belief. In lines 21-29, Grendel is mentioned to be spawned in slime that were conceived by a pair of monsters born of Cain, who killed his brother Abel in the book of Genesis. These mentions show usage of faith as well as an understanding of the religion and traditions within the culture at the time.

Finally, a huge contribution to the story of Beowulf, is how a hero characteristic contributes. Beowulf himself tends to be full of himself throughout the story, very confident. Yet, Beowulf lives up to his banter. In lines 112-124, Beowulf is mentioned to be first in line. He heard of the event that had occurred at Heorot hall and immediately got together a group of men willing to sail with him to assist (Pg. 9 PDF). By the middle of the story, Beowulf mentions that he shall fight Grendel with his bare hands. As well as if he were to die, that there should be no body to prepare as he will be eaten by the monster himself (lines 170-180, pg. 11 PDF). This shows heroic characteristics as Beowulf was willing to stand up for the Danes, even if it meant death. Overall, Beowulf showed confidence as well as had a group of men willing to fight along with him.