Anglo Saxon Cultural Values

The Continuity and Change of Cultural Values in the Anglo-Saxon and Modern Day Society In the epic poem, Beowulf, translated by Burton Raffel, the cultural values of the Anglo-Saxon society are expressed through a story of a great hero. Anglo-Saxon society was full of kings, and monsters,as well as the heroes who killed them. This explains why the image of heroes and the value placed in them has changed over time. The characteristics, standards, and praise of heroes has greatly evolved since the Anglo-Saxon period, portrayed in the epic Beowulf. However, there continuity is still shown in each culture. The characteristics needed to be considered a hero in Anglo-Saxon society and modern society are somewhat different. Both modern and Anglo-Saxon

Heroes in Anglo-Saxon society were warriors skilled in killing monsters and other people. In order to be a hero or rise to be successful, a person had to kill, “We’ve heard of Danish heroes,/Ancient kings and the glory they cut/For themselves,swinging mighty swords!” (Lines 2-3) In the Anglo-Saxon time period security and protection were scarce so the first solution to a threat was killing. Heroes were considered great if they were skilled in killing people. In contrast, the purpose of modern day heroes is also to protect people; however, the way they do this has to be considered moral. Heroes today must follow rules and have morality when protecting citizens. Modern day heroes protect people using other methods rather than killing, because killing is not their first response to problems. Today, modern heroes usually have the luxury of having options rather than killing. True modern heroes will always approach a problem peacefully to limit casualties and progress as needed. “Each branch of the military has a unique mission within the overall mission of U.S. security and peace.”(U.S.) Most heroes today promote peace rather than practice violence. For example, the coast guard patrols domestic waterways. Many sects of the military primary keep the peace and rescue those who are in danger. Members of the United States Armed Forces vow, “I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense” (Code) Soldiers in the United States Arm Force today, are expected to live by this code and perform their duty ethically. Modern day heroes are suppose to be loyal leaders who humbly risk their lives purely for the sake of others, without expecting any rewards. The purpose of Anglo-Saxon and modern day society heroes is similar in responsibility to protect