How Fate Is Portrayed In Beowulf

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Beowulf written between the seventh century and the ninth century is a “rich oral” epic written by an unknown author (Beers 409). From 449 to 1066, concepts such as loyalty, personal indebtedness, and fame were all cherished. Beowulf mirrors multiple traits such as concepts, religion, and characteristics of an epic considered valuable during the Anglo-Saxon Ages.
Many concepts that were appreciated during the Anglo-Saxon period are demonstrated throughout Beowulf. During this time period the Anglo Saxons were a firm believer in personal indebtedness. The Anglo Saxons believed that when doing one a favor, the other person owed them a favor in return. During the battle between Beowulf and the dragon, personal indebtedness is demonstrated when Wiglaf expresses his thoughts when the warriors run in fear: “Needed us, he who gave us these swords / And armor: all of us swore to repay him, / When the time came, kindness for kindness / -With our lives, if he needs them” (Beowulf ll. 105-108). Wiglaf feels as if the vows he, and the warriors made were in a way …show more content…

This would be the way in which the writing reflects the time period the poet himself lived in. throughout the epic, many comments are made about God and him “Who will be given to death’s cold grip” (Beowulf ll 174-175). The writer’s faith and beliefs are exposed when Beowulf thanks his “Father in Heaven, Ruler of the Earth” for the life he was able to live and the people he was able to lead (Beowulf l. 201). Another example of the poet expressing his religious beliefs would be when the Geats “Thanked God that their leader had come back unharmed,” the poet is giving God recognition for allowing Beowulf to have returned safely (Beowulf l. 582). With that being said, the poet also throws in there the view point of Beowulf when it comes to his destiny: “Fate will unwind as it must!” (Beowulf l.

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