The Use Of Alliteration In The Epic Of Beowulf

Beowulf is the oldest work of heroic literature that we have today. This profound piece of work should be included as a part of required reading for a course. It serves as an ideal example of an epic, exhibiting all of the literary techniques that should be included in such pieces. It is written about concepts that are still relevant today, making it timeless. And this masterpiece reflects the time in which it was written, allowing the reader deeper cognizance of that time. In order to be classified in the genre, epic, a piece of literature must incorporate certain literary techniques. It should be a long narrative poem, be written about a hero, and contain alliteration, rhythm, and imagery. Beowulf contains three thousand one hundred and eighty two lines. The title comes from the poem’s main character, Beowulf, who repeatedly demonstrates heroic acts beyond the ability of the average man, described as being the mightiest man, Beowulf conquers beasts and a dragon, becomes a king ruling his land for more than fifty years, and is a great leader his men are eager to follow. The author of Beowulf uses alliteration throughout the poem, this device draws one’s attention and creates a flow for the reader. In this example the author uses alliteration when opening the scene for the day after Heorot is attacked “Then as dawn brightened and the day

The use of alliteration also lends to the rhythm of the tale, it is almost sing-song like, making it easier to remember. The author uses imagery to skillfully and artfully draw the reader into the story. Here the