Although there is not much known about the author or origin of "Beowulf," much can be said about the use of symbolism and themes in the poem. I think the strongest presence can be felt within the use of symbolism. Just as strong, I believe the use of family lineage plays a reoccurring role in the poem. Throughout all of Beowulf's adventures and battles, Beowulf establishes himself as a hero; not only to himself, but to all the Spear-Danes as well.
             It seems to me that throughout the book, no character can establish himself without the use of family lineage. Characters in the poem are unable to talk about their identity or even introduce themselves without referring to family lineage. I think this shows how great the emphasis of kinship bonds were in his poem. It also shows how much pride a particular person had in their ancestors. I believe people refer to there ancestors who have acted brave in their lives, in order to establish a set of standards for themselves.
             The use of family lineage could perhaps be traced back to the origins of the poem. Although it is not known where exactly the poem originated, one can assume this was the case there and then as well. The world was a lot smaller in those days, and certain people could probably trace their family lineage all the way to its creation. In those times also, people may have been placed in a certain class of society according to there family.
             Intimately connected to the theme of the importance of establishing one's identity is the oral tradition, which preserves the lessons and lineages of the past, and helps to spread reputations. Indeed, in a culture that has little interaction with writing, only the spoken word can allow individuals to learn about others and make their own stories known. This emphasis on oral communication explains the prevalence of warriors' boastings (such as Beowulf's telling of the Breca story). From a broader perspective, B...