The Germanic tribe known as the Anglo-Saxons arrived in Britain during the early 5th century. This group of people would influence the literature of the time period referred to as Old English. Literary works such as Beowulf, The Seafarer, and the story of Caedmon, served as representations of the Anglo-Saxon culture and demonstrated a value system that was important to the people of the time. Through literary works such as these, Anglo Saxons revealed their essential value system and the morals they believe in such as courage and heroism, loyalty, and fate. Anglo-Saxons believed strongly in courage and heroism. During this time period, it was of great importance to the people to be known for their courageous actions against evil. In the epic …show more content…
Loyalty was crucial in the protection of Anglo-Saxon territories. They believed in the utmost loyalty to their leader and country as well as to their allies. For example Beowulf is ultimately motivated by loyalty to help Hrothgar. Although it is not his own kingdom, Beowulf assists because he owes Hrothgar a service in return for the favors Hrothgar had completed for his father Edgetho. Another example occurs toward the end of Beowulf’s life when Wiglaf shows great loyalty toward Beowulf. When no one wants to help Beowulf in his final battle against the dragon, Wiglaf pledges to help his old king “I well know the things he has done for us deserve better…We must bond together shield and helmet, mail-shirt and sword” (48). Together they defeat the dragon although Beowulf is fatally injured. With a sense of highest loyalty, Wiglaf buries the dragon’s treasure with Beowulf’s cremated body in a barrow so that he may overlook the kingdom of the Geats. Loyalty could also be discovered in The Seafarer. The seafarer is loyal to the sea that in this case can be interpreted as the seafarer’s lord. No matter the hardships the sea brings upon the seafarer, he continues to find happiness at sea. Ultimately, in the Anglo-Saxon society, it was loyalty that encouraged men to do the great things they