Theme Of Treasure In Beowulf's Life

Significances of Treasure in Beowulf’s Life Kim Gruenenfelder stated, “Money can 't buy happiness. But it sure can rent it for a while”. Feelings do not last forever, they are temporary. Beowulf was written by an unknown Anglo-Saxon poet around 1000 A.D. Beowulf is an epic poem that consists of three parts and reflects the early medieval warrior culture in Europe. Beowulf is a hero that battles three gruesome monsters and creates a representation of the best values of the heroic culture. Each part is about a fight with a specific monster: first Grendel, then Grendel’s mother, then the dragon. Honoring of thanes with treasure and gold is one of the practices used as a reward. Beowulf’s (the prince of Geats) attitude does change toward treasure

In the beginning, Beowulf had a strong desire for treasure. Gold can be used as a reward, gift, or symbol of honor. During the funeral of the Danish king Shield Sheafson, "They stretched their beloved lord in his boat, laid out by the mast, amidships, the great ring-giver. Far-fetched treasures were piled upon him, and precious gear. I never heard before of a ship so well furbished with battle tackle, bladed weapons and coats of mail. The massed treasure was loaded on top of him: it would travel far on out into the ocean 's sway." (34-42). A noble king is being covered with treasures as he is being buried and sent out to sea. A boatload of treasure is being sent out to sea with his body for his greatness. This implies that gold is way to reward a hero for his service. As a reward for defeating the monster Grendel, "And he was given a mail shirt, and a golden arms band, and the most beautiful necklace known to man" (90-95). Beowulf is given many golden treasures such an arms band and a necklace. The king showers Beowulf with gold and Beowulf accepts all the gold he can take. In the poem, it says “They marched in step, hurrying on till the timbered hall rose before them, radiant with gold. Nobody on earth knew of another building like it. Majesty lodged there, its light shone over many lands” (306-311). In the medieval Scandinavian warrior culture, every member wanted to show off the wealth they own.

Beowulf was not motivated to do heroic deeds for the treasure, such as gold and jewels. After Beowulf cut Grendel’s head off, “The Captain saw treasure in abundance but carried no spoils from those quarters except for the head and the inlaid hilt embossed with jewels…” (1612-1615); which shows that gold was not something to cherish for. Grendel’s head was more of a reward of gratitude for his brave actions. Beowulf is being a righteous character by having the satisfaction of protecting his town. In the poem, it says “O should a young man by good deeds, by splendid gifts while still in his father 's house, make sure that in old age his dear companions will remain with him, that when war comes, the people will support him” (20-24). Beowulf receives many rewards for his services but that does not mean these rewards are seen as mercenaries’ wages. Beowulf fights in battle for the king and town. The satisfaction of the safety of his town is just as rewarding as gold. Loyalty and generosity are both significant qualities in Beowulf. Beowulf states, “To the everlasting Lord of All, to the King of Glory, I give thanks that I behold this treasure here in front of me, that I have been allowed to leave my people so well endowed on the day I die” (2794-2797). Beowulf looks at the treasure sadly even though he is leaving such a legacy for his people. He is pondering whether his offerings was worth the treasure. At this