Loyalty And Honor In The Battle Of Maldon

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The Battle of Maldon begins in the midst of a battle between a countryside village and a band of Vikings out for their riches. Though the background is unclear from the piece on its own and the ending is unknown this piece shows many characteristics of the culture these people lived in. The men of this era were strong and courageous; they were loyal to their own and would fight to the death in the name of those they cared deeply for. They lived in smaller communities where family and loyal friends were more important than any gold. This piece not only shows those values, but the shame that follows those who did not uphold them. Though the people of this era held many values close to heart, one in particular that was especially important was courage and cowardice. Those who were …show more content…

Steadfast warriors about Sturmer need not reproach me with their words that now that my patron is dead I would go lordless home, abandon the battle. But weapon, point and iron, shall take me.” Through this quote it is clear the value of loyalty and honor in this society. Without it there would be no battle, no reason to fight. If they were not loyal to their leader and their home they would have paid the intruders off and spared their lives. Instead, they fought. Held their ground from the moment the battle began until long after they knew they had very slim chance. They did not care whether they lived or died so long as they fought on, especially after the death of the Earl. Many then fought even harder to avenge this man they were so loyal to and when they were struck down they did not die in pity but instead in honor; because they kept their vows to their lord and their home. And this sense of connection and loyalty was so strong primarily because of the third value in these people’s lives; family and

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