Beowulf: The Hero of The Geats

Over Spring Break I finished my third outside reading book, Beowulf. This book was very interesting because it is not actually a book but an epic poem. The poem follows the journey of Beowulf beginning with him killing the monster Grendel. His next heroic feat was when he attacked Grendel's mother in her cave and killed her. Beowulf's final battle was fought against the dragon fifty years after defeating Grendel and his mother. Beowulf lost his life in this battle.

Beowulf has many heroic qualities explicitly and implicitly stated in the poem. His brute strength and stamina is blatantly mentioned multiple times. One specific example is when Beowulf partook in a swimming competition against Breca. Beowulf stayed in the ocean for five days fighting off sea monsters, while Breca swam away. His ability to rule the kingdom after the king dies prematurely is more implied. The poem focuses more on the battles Beowulf went into, rather than the fact that he ruled the Geats for fifty years.

It was evident to me while reading the book that Christian beliefs played a major role in the Anglo Saxon culture. Any deadly mythical creature or monster mentioned was said to be descendant of Cain. Before Beowulf began any fight he made a formal boast, praised God for his abilities, and asked for God to bless him. Beowulf also put all of his faith in God throughout his battles.

Another thing that I noticed was how the men lived by a code of honor. They would much rather die in a fierce battle than of old age. Beowulf and his companions often bragged about the heroic feats they had accomplished. The soldiers and captains who had fought in fierce battles were just as respected and loved as the royalty. The Anglo Saxon culture is quite different from our culture today!