What we know of our ancestors is very limited, but what we do know comes from old myths written down about warriors, kings, and gods. These impressive stories of quests and chivalry span over 700 years from the story of the brave warrior Beowulf to the chivalry and bravery involved in "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" and "The Faerie Queene". Through these stories you can see people's views on society and the ideals that govern it. These stories have a strong undertone of Pagan vs. Christian views even though written at such different times. Not only do you see a difference in these supernatural beliefs, but there is also a certain hierarchy that is prevalent throughout these stories. This includes different types of the class systems as well as the general rules of that govern the lives of the people during these time periods.
             The main topic of class system and gender rules is shown throughout these stories and even though it varies because of the huge time gap, the characters in these stories exemplify many of the same roles. The main and most prevalent topic about roles comes from the leaders of these stories, from the warriors to the noble knights of Arthurian legends. The most important aspect runs through all three of these stories, which are the protection of their people and not breaking away from their duties. In all three of these stories the protection of their people/king or the protection of family ties is the basis for the quests that these warriors undertake. In "Beowulf" the main character does his duty by going to the aid of his father's friend. All of the perils that Beowulf must face come from his belief of the duties that the warrior must uphold. Not only does Beowulf complete his original quest, but he also protects the society when is attacked by Grendel's Mother. Even though this makes him the hero of the story by doing what no other man could, it still f...