Thursday, May 30, 2019

Best Evidence :: essays research papers

There are archetypal patterns in life. They reoccur and become familiar to people through every(prenominal) ages and ethnicities. Throughout history, few literary works have captivated audiences by incorporating these patterns. The epic Beowulf is one literary work that effectively incorporates timeless components. The epic verse form relates the tale of Beowulf, a warrior who throughout his life overcomes evils. It has strong elements of Anglo-Saxon elements of bravery, strength and of religious tenets. Beowulf enjoys universal appeal primarily because of its elements of characterization, plot and theme that prove timeless. Beowulfs portrayal of human nature proves eternal. The protagonist Beowulf brashly lists his accomplishments before entering battle "But the truth is simple no man swims in the ocean as I can, no strength is a match for mine other monsters crowded around me, continually attacking. I treated them politely, offering the butt on of my razor-sharp sword," (265-294). His boasts are symbolic of his personal insecurity. Beowulf seems scared of defeat and faliure. His boastful remarks are reminders to himself of his invincibility. Because he is insecure, Beowulf is an accurate representation of human nature. The poem also discloses affable behaviors through Welthow, who portrays appropriate submissiveness of a wife. Women in society and position always are hot topics for discussion in any country and time period. She is submissive to her husband and " pours a portion from the jeweled cup for each, till she had carried the mead-cup among the guests," (354-372). Jealousy is a accurately portrayed in the poem. is a human attribute that will apply to any time period anywhere. In the incident with Unferth, for example "angry that anyone in Denmark or anywhere on earth had ever acquired triumph and fame greater than his own"(236-238) tries to belittle Beowulfs claims to bravery, and, by doing so, adds realistic qualities to his character. Belief Divine or supernatural notions are also tendencies of human nature. The poem reflects this permanent concern through references to "that Shepherd of Evil" (432) and "sacrifices to the old stone gods" (90). These are both conflicting allusions to the two prominent religions of the time. One pertains to Christian ideology i.e. "The churchman God" (493), and "the Almighty making the earth" (8), and the other relates to Anglo Saxon religious beliefs i.e., "the omens were good" (118) and "fate will unwind as it must," (189). The poem alludes to Christianity, a monotheistic religion that rejects ideas of fate.

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