Anglo-Saxon Ideal Code of Conduct :: Beowulf Epic Poems Anglo-Saxon Literature Essays

Anglo-Saxon Ideal Code of ConductThe epic poem of Beowulf presents the geniusistics of two heroes,Beowulf and Hrothgar. During this Anglo-Saxon time period, Hrothgar rules asthe fairy of his Danish lands. However, this king faces many problems due to thedisturbances of a monster known as Grendel. As an Anglo-Saxon warrior of thetime, Beowulf hears of this creature and journeys through the heros path tokill Grendel. through and through this journey, Hrothgar and Beowulf reconstruct the codeof conduct of an ideal Anglo-Saxon king and warrior. The Danish lands of the time are ruled by Hrothgar, a respected andgenerous king. These qualities of character were admired by the people of histime and place. All people of Hrothgars kingdom respected this king, and theyall accepted his very word far and wide as a command. The people also givehim great titles such as the Lord of the Mighty Danes, guardian of theScyldings, and protector of warriors. Much of these peoples respect come inrespo nse to Hrothgars generosity to everyone. This generosity can be seentowards Beowulf, when the king gives his thanks for the heroic deeds of thewarrior. Hrothgar rewards Beowulf with priceless material as he says to thewarrior, You shall lack no earthly riches I can offer you. The people of theland also trust their king, who holds a strong belief in God. In the place settingwhere Hrothgar celebrates Grendels death, he holds the monsters hand as he says,Let us give thanks at once to God Almighty for this sight. The companioners ofthe king some(prenominal) respect and trust their ruler, and through his generosity andstrong trust in good, Hrothgar displays the ideal code of conduct for an Anglo-Saxon king. Another epic hero that has qualities that follow the Anglo-Saxon code ofconduct is Beowulf. This warrior, known to be the strongest man alive, leavesfor a heroic journey when he hears of the evil Grendel. He first shows hisstrength and prowess when he sets sail to assist Hroth gar in defeating Grendelafter hearing news of the creature in his own land. Beowulf is constantlyreferred to as last, such as when he defeats Grendel, and Hrothgar must rewardhim for his heroics. As the brave man moved forward until he stood immediatelybefore the Danish lord, Hrothgar says, I will reward this brave man withtreasures. The unbeatable strength of Beowulf shows during his confrontationwith Grendel, when the monster instantly realizes that never had he met any man