Does Beowulf Reflect The Anglo-Saxons?

How does Beowulf reflect the Anglo-Saxons?

In the poem, Beowulf, Anglo Saxon influences are very prominent and seeped into their literature. The hero, a norse Thane from Geatland, becomes a legend after committing heroic deeds and overcoming strenuous tasks. It is known for being one of the most important works of Anglo-Saxon literature and has no known author. Since they lived in tight communities that often had to fend off invaders, the main ideals of comitatus kept the Anglo-Saxons from collapsing as a whole.

The Anglo-Saxons governing system was built on the fundamental of loyalty. We see this expressed in the poem multiple times, most commonly between the bonds of Beowulf and his men. Although in most of his battles he faced each monster alone, loyalty from the hero for his people is the virtue that keeps him going. In the poem itself, the people say that Beowulf, “...was the kindest of worldly kings. Mildest, most gentle, most eager for fame” (Probst 2973). Those aspects of the protagonist were the main standpoints of comitatus and the beliefs of a great hero in the Anglo-Saxon land. It shaped the very tribal culture in which they lived.

Beowulf shows his strength and willpower in the story many times, either facing the demon Grendel with no protection whatsoever or facing sea monsters in a swimming race. As it says in Heroes and Leaders, “His bravery and prowess against such fearful foes make him a respected leader, and he eventually becomes king: "Well-loved, followed in friendship, not fear.” (Hacht 581). Without Beowulf’s brute strength and bravery in the ideals of the Anglo-Saxon culture, the people under the rule of Hrothgar and eventually Beowulf himself, would’ve had slim chances to survive without the hero's strength and bravery under