In the epic poem Beowulf, the values of the Anglo-Saxon society that are revealed are heroism, loyalty, and friendship. The universal theme in Beowulf is being loyal to the king. Because soldiers were always loyal to their king, kingdoms would always live long.
One value in Beowulf is heroism. One example of heroism is when Beowulf travels to the land of the Danes to fight Grendel. This act shows the basic act of a hero: killing a vicious beast. By defeating Grendel and Grendel’s mother, he was considered among his people as a hero. Another value in Beowulf is loyalty. One example of loyalty is when Beowulf courageously dies while killing the dragon. During the Anglo-Saxon period, the king’s subjects were always loyal and faithful to him and vice versa. Because Beowulf died while killing the dragon, he saved his people from said dragon. Finally another value in Beowulf is friendship. One example of friendship is when Wiglaf agrees to help Beowulf fight the dragon. This act shows both friendship and loyalty because Wiglaf helps Beowulf, even though he might die in the process. In Anglo-Saxon time, friendship is ultimate.
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