The Values of a Warrior Society as Seen in Beowulf Essay

The Values of a Warrior Society As Seen in Beowulf When Nelson Mandela, the president of South Africa died, thousands of people gathered to say their goodbyes. It was not a happy and joyous occasion but rather one where people were mourning of the loss of a great man. They may not have personal known him but they know of the great things that he has done to make the world a better place. To them, it is what made his death difficult and sad. However, if we lived in a warrior society his death would not have something to mourn; instead we would celebrate his life. This is seen in the epic Beowulf as the people of Geatland lay him to rest and celebrate his life. The celebration reveals that the society knows what a great king is and that†¦show more content†¦Scyld’s funeral is not a somber occasion, but rather a joyous celebration. The people do not mourn that he is dead but rather rejoice for the life that he led. Their celebration shows that they do not grieve death. I n this warrior society death is seen as honorable. The one who has died has given the ultimate sacrifice, death, for their people. They may have followed their leader into battle and died or they may have died of old age as is the case with Scyld. This is confirmed later on when Beowulf is speaking Hrothgar on the death of his best thane. Beowulf states, Wise sir, do not grieve. It is always better to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning. For every one of us, living in this world means waiting for our end. Let whoever can win glory before death. When a warrior is gone, that will be his best and only bulwark (lines 1384-89). This statement solidifies what is hinted at earlier on in the epic during Scyld’s funeral. It is part of a heroic code. Death is what comes to people who have earned it in their dedication to a cause or great warriors who have earned it. Since death is found to be so honorable, the people do not mourn for the loss of their king but celebrate his de ath. Scyld’s funeral plays an important role in discovering what was important to the society at this time including honor in death and the qualities found in a greatShow MoreRelatedBeowulf Is The Oldest Recorded Poem1328 Words   |  6 Pagespoem, Beowulf, is the oldest recorded poem in English and at 3200 lines long, comprises roughly ten percent of the surviving poetry in Old English. Although written in this language, Beowulf focuses on the feats of the poem’s namesake Beowulf, a Geatish prince, and the invading Germanic tribes in Denmark. Understood early on in the poem, these tribes have a lengthy and powerful warrior culture; a culture heavily influenced by heroic virtues, blood vengeance, and paganism. Along with these values ofRead MoreGenerosity And Values Of The Epic Of Beowulf884 Words   |  4 Pagesthe Anglo-Saxons during this time period. One of the most well known epics Beowulf, celebrates the deeds of the legendary and heroic Geat warrior named Beowu lf. 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