Introduction: Beowulf is the only surviving heroic epic poem from the Old English period. This is an introduction that identifies the language and culture that emerged in Britain between the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in Britain in the 5th century and the Norman Conquest in 1066. The mixture of several races, languages ​​and cultures was the result of invasions. Britain by several tribes like the Picts, Jutes and Scots. But the West Germanic tribe; The Anglo-Saxons were the most influential tribe during this period. Thesis Statement: By analyzing the theme of loyalty in Beowulf, this essay demonstrates the role of loyalty and rewards in Anglo-Saxon culture. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayBackground: The poem Beowulf was written in the 8th century and therefore reflects the values ​​of that culture and period. In Anglo-Saxon culture, “battle is a way of life, a necessary function of the most worthy members of society”. (xiv, Raffel). The relationship between the king and his warriors involves the warriors devoting themselves and sacrificing their lives for the sake of their king. In return, the king gives the warrior a great reward, as well as fame and glory. In Beowulf, the relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf, and Beowulf and Wiglaf demonstrates the importance of loyalty and rewards in Anglo-Saxon culture. Topic Sentence: Beowulf shows immense loyalty to the King of the Danes, Hrothgar, throughout the poem. Hrothgar doesn't even need to ask Beowulf for his help in killing the monster that terrorizes Herot, known as Grendel. Evidence and Quote: Beowulf insists that it was "his duty to go and see the great king of the Danes." (Beowulf 416). Not only is Beowulf willing to "die in battle under Grendel's fierce grip", but he also succeeds in defeating the monster (635-637). Despite his victory, Grendel's mother returns to avenge her son and kills one of Hrothgar's dearest friends. As a result, the king begs Beowulf to “save them, once more.” Loyalty to the king is not lacking when Beowulf agrees, without hesitation, to “let Hrothgar’s sorrow cease” and “avenge their friends.” Evidence and Quote: Beowulf demonstrates bravery and loyalty to Hrothgar when he fearlessly murders Grendel's mother. Commentary: Even after repeatedly risking his life to defend the king, Beowulf still insists that if Hrothgar needs his help again, he must "summon" him and that he will "come as he came once before.” Ultimately proving that the king-warrior relationship is strengthened through loyalty.Topic Sentence: As compensation for Beowulf's loyal and courageous actions, Hrothgar offers him many rewards. Evidence and Quote: Immediately, Hrothgar promises Beowulf that if he "purges Herot, then Beowulf's ship will return home with its treasures full." As king, Hrothgar's promises of fame and fortune are the primary motive for his devotion to the king. Comment: In Anglo-Saxon culture, the rewards given to a soldier indicate the honorability of his position and enhance the relationship between king and warrior. Hrothgar is so grateful for Grendel's death that he tells Beowulf to "take, in return, all that Beowulf may want of all that Hrothgar has." Evidence and Citation: Not only does Hrothgar give Beowulf "a foaming cup, a mail shirt, a golden arm, rings, and the finest necklace known to man" (1193-1195), but he also rewards Beowulf after he defeats Grendel's mother. . The rewardsare a necessity in the king-warrior relationship because they are the reason for the warriors' loyalty. Topic Sentence: After many years, Beowulf becomes king of the Geats and his brave warrior, Wiglaf, demonstrates the value of loyalty in the king. -warlike relationship. When a deadly dragon threatens his country, Beowulf and a few warriors plan to destroy the monster. Despite the warrior he once was, Beowulf is now too old to fight the dragon alone and "the famous son of Edgetho stares at death", "none of his comrades help him... only one remains... remembering, as a good man must, what kinship should mean. The cowardly actions of Beowulf's warriors demonstrate utter shame and disrespect towards Beowulf. Evidence and Quote: However, Wiglaf manages to defend his king and proves his loyalty to his king when he says "he would rather burn himself than see flames swirling around his lord." Wiglaf's devotion to Beowulf is undeniable "when Beowulf needs him most, Wiglaf shows his courage, strength and skill...he helps his lord by striking the dragon low." » Evidence and Quote: Even after the great king of Wiglaf dies, he remains faithful, reprimanding the other men for "running like cowards, dropping their swords as soon as danger was real." Contrary to Beowulf's devotion to Hrothgar, Beowulf's soldiers fled when he most needed their help. Commentary: Despite the majority of his warrior's actions, Wiglaf's relationship with Beowulf correlates with Beowulf's loyalty to Hrothgar, fighting for their king and sacrificing their own lives to protect their king. Topic Sentence: Beowulf expresses the rewards aspect of the warrior-king relationship when he rewards his warrior, Wiglaf, for his loyalty and courage. Evidence and Quote: After Wiglaf helps his king defeat the dragon, Beowulf orders him to "find the dragon's treasure...its gold is theirs." (2745). Wiglaf is able to “take whatever he wants, whatever treasure pleases his eyes.” In addition to the dragon's treasure Wiglaf is rewarded with, Beowulf also tells Wiglaf to "take what Beowulf leaves and lead his people." Commentary: In Anglo-Saxon culture, it is normal for Beowulf to express his gratitude to Wiglaf through riches and permission to rule the people. The way Beowulf rewards Wiglaf is very similar to the rewards Hrothgar gives Beowulf for his loyal actions. Wiglaf is an exceptional example of loyalty in this epic. His loyalty to his master Beowulf is second to none. We considered him standing by Beowulf whenever he needed it. He had served Beowulf with all his power and intelligence. Last but not least, when we all left out of fear from the fight between the mighty dragon and Beowulf, it was he who fought bravely in the guise of Beowulf. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.Get a Custom EssayConclusion Paragraph: The values ​​of reward and loyalty in Anglo-Saxon culture are represented through the relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf, and between Beowulf and Wiglaf. In Anglo-Saxon society, the rank of warrior is one of the most honorable one can attain. The loyalty the warriors show to their king is shown through Beowulf's actions of killing Grendel and Grendel's mother to defend Hrothgar and his people, as well as through Wiglaf's assistance to Beowulf in killing the dragon . Thanks to the efforts and loyalty of the warriors, the kings, who in this case are Beowulf and Hrothgar, generously reward their soldiers with, 62(4), 829-850..