The Role Of Kingship In The Epic Of Beowulf

In the epic poem of Beowulf, the characters and setting of the time center around the archetypes of Anglo-Saxon literature dating back to its origins in 700 A.D. This mythological masterpiece has withstood the test of time and has proven to be a timeless piece of work in the literary canon time and time again over generations of savage culture. In Seamus Heaney and Roy Liuzza’s modern translations, the poem upholds traditional Germanic paternalistic code of kingship, which reflects the masculinity of our warrior, king and God-like figure that is the protagonist Beowulf. As we begin to dig deeper into the text, we begin to see how all of Beowulf’s attributes make him worthy of being a loyal ruler and fulfilling the duties and expectations thrust

In addition, I will first draw from other sections of the poem in a chronological order of events to make a cohesive argument from start to end, to exemplify my scholarly critique why I believe kingship is pulling at the roots of Beowulf’s heartstrings.

First and foremost, it needs to be said and unanimously agreed upon that Beowulf is a man of all men who wears his heart on his sleeve for his fellow countrymen. He is the epitome of the ideal hero, embodying the manners and values of the Germanic heroic code. His word is truly as good as his sword, executing his actions and promises with sheer perfection, which is extraordinary to say the least. The poem explores his heroics in upholding and defending his Geats and the Danes. Beowulf’s resumé is flawless, his character is

Before a sword slices the air or a drop of blood is spilled, it seems as if the braggadocios warrior is humbled and anticipates the that the end is near, this can be inferred when he asks his countrymen to prepare ‘Beowulf’s Barrow.’ “Men at arms, remain here on the barrow, safe in your armor, to see which one of us is better in the end at bearing wounds in a deadly fray. This fight is not yours, nor is it up to any man except me to measure his strength against the monster or to prove his worth. I shall win the gold by my courage, or else mortal combat, doom to battle, will bear your lord away” (Heaney 2529-2537). During the midst of this final episode, Beowulf’s majestic sword, Naegling, is no match for the fire breathing breast and he finds himself in an unfamiliar defenseless and vulnerable position. Although Beowulf’s loyal companion, Wiglaf, comes to his aid it is to no avail. Both the Beowulf and the Dragon exchange fatal blows and proceed to suffer up until their demise. Beowulf’s death is foreshadowed, the tragic scene of his final moments in the mortal world are rather foreseeable and predictable. “…doomed as I am and sickening for death; because of my right ways, the Ruler of mankind need never blame me when the breath leaves my body for murder of kinsmen” (Heaney