universal themes

Typical of epic poetry, Beowulf embodies the attitudes and ideals of Anglo-Saxon Society. Warfare dominated Anglo-Saxon society. Therefore, warriors were highly important members of society. Superior physical strength, valor, and honor represented the ideal characteristics of a warrior. Beowulf consisted of all of these characteristics. By even declaring that he would fight Grendel, Beowulf displays courage. Crossing the treacherous seas to Denmark proved his courage. Finally, the Danes had someone to rely on. In addition to courage, Beowulf had honor. Not only did he come to Herot to protect the Danes, Beowulf came to repay a debt. “My people have said, the wisest, most knowing and best of them, that my duty was to go to the Danes’ Great king.” Hrothgar once helped Beowulf’s father so Beowulf wanted to repay the favor. Beowulf also had superior physical strength. For example, though no weapon could pierce Grendel’s body and none could kill him, Beowulf succeeded. “The infamous killer fought for his freedom, wanting no flesh but retreat, desiring nothing but escape; his claws had been caught, he was trapped.” Loyalty was also an ideal characteristic of Anglo-Saxon society. Accompanied by 14 loyal men, Beowulf successfully crosses the sea to Denmark. With the help of a loyal follower, Beowulf defeats the dragon plaguing the Geats. Through loyalty to the liege or lord, Anglo-Saxons could gain fame and success. Boasting, a typical practice in Anglo-Saxon society can be seen in Beowulf. For example, upon first meeting Hrothgar, Beowulf brags about his strength. “I drove five great giants into chains, chased all of that race from the earth.” “I swam into the blackness of night, hunting monsters out of the ocean, and killing them one by one, death was my errand and the fate they had earned.”
The epic of Beowulf also reveals some universal themes. For example, heroism is a theme widespread in literature and society everywhere. Like Anglo-Saxon society, present-day society value courage, loyalty, and honor. Americans honor their soldiers for the valor in battle by awarding them the Purple Heart. Veterans, valued members of society, receive priority for employment. Loyalty in battle is important, with one motto being, “Leave no man behind.” Fame and success is an ever-present goal, whether it is those hoping to becoming celebrities or gain success in school. Fictional heroes embody the characteristics of superior physical strength and a willingness to protect the people. The exploits of these heroes, such as Superman, Spiderman, and Batman, have been passed from generation to generation. The theme, everyone needs a hero, is expressed thoroughly by the epic Beowulf.