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The moral presented in the epic poem Beowulf is the recognition that human destiny is controlled by God. The protagonist’s actions highlight the human struggle between good and evil.
As this episode participates in the reflective nexus of stories told within Beowulf, it also poses modern readers an interesting question: which other embedded narratives has the poet changed in order to manipulate the point of each story and of Beowulf as a whole?
But as the story of Beowulf unfolds, it becomes clear that while good kings and warriors share some similar traits, such as courage, loyalty, selflessness, and might in battle, the values of a good warrior and a good king do not overlap in other fundamental ways.
In his youth, Beowulf is a great warrior, characterized predominantly by his feats of strength and courage, including his fabled swimming match against Breca. He also perfectly embodies the manners and values dictated by the Germanic heroic code, including loyalty, courtesy, and pride.
Get everything you need to know about Christianity and Paganism in Beowulf. Analysis, related quotes, theme tracking.
Wiglaf, the youngest among Beowulf's men, reminds the more experienced warriors of their duty to defend Beowulf before joining the battle himself. The “tasting [of] the mead-cup” is a symbol of solidarity and an important oath of loyalty among the Geats.
6 cze 2024 · Beowulf’s narrative teaches us that loyalty is a reciprocal virtue, fostering trust and cohesion within communities. It’s a reminder that our actions have a ripple effect, influencing not just our lives but also the lives of those around us.
