Anglo-Saxon Culture in Beowulf

Mistranslation or misunderstanding may partake in the process of writing such an Anglo-Saxon poem as Beowulf. An ideal Anglo-Saxon trait to possess is courage. xon poetry lacks end rhyme, as presented in Beowulf. Along with courage and loyalty to one’s king or lord, an admired Anglo-Saxon hero would encompass generosity toward others. Another much admired heroic trait to possess within the Anglo-Saxon era is loyalty to one’s king or lord. The character, Beowulf, definitely pays loyalty and respect, for, “[he’d] rather burn [himself] than see flames swirling around [his] lord” (781-782). The reader may never get an exact clear message on what the unknown author of Beowulf wants to portray. This daredevil swims in full armor and with sword for seven days, “risking [his] [life] for no reason but the danger” (243-244). His remark, “I mean to stand, not run from his shooting flames, stand till fate decides which of us wins” (675-677), among with others like it, implies that Beowulf has already deciphered his fate. Along with the characteristics of an Anglo-Saxon poem, many typical themes are presented in Beowulf. Beowulf never lacks in his admired boldness and courage and is presented when he proclaims that “[his] hands alone shall fight for [him]” (173-174). Another typical theme presented in Beowulf has to do with wild terrors of nature. For example, Grendel’s mother is referred to as a “water witch” (595), and Edgetho’s son is referred to a “ring-giver”. Kennings, two-word metaphors used as poetic convention, are presented within Beowulf.