Beowulf's Impact On Society

Beowulf Impact on Society Beowulf is a brilliant piece of literature that greatly impacted the British society because of the qualities he obtained, his transformation to a mature adult, and his devotion to his society. Even though this story does not have a set author, readers are drawn to the thrilling challenges he conquered.

Beowulf was a courageous individual who loved a good challenge. Even in the beginning Beowulf had the reputation of being strong, intelligent, brave, and bold. When he heard of the terrible Grendel who terrorized the town of Herot he packed his bags and came to the rescue. With no hesitation, he slayed Grendel by decapitating the monster's arm. Not long after, the mother of the terrible Grendel wanted revenge on

Thomas Napierkowski stated that, “Beowulf embodies all the qualities admired by the Anglo-Saxons, including some that those unfamiliar with the culture of the period might not expect. He is, of course, fearless, strong, and loyal, but he is also intelligent, articulate, courteous, and, above all, committed to the service, comfort, and joy (even peace) of his people” (Napierkowski n.p). This quote shows Beowulf’s positive impact on society, Britain was impressed by these qualities and in their eyes he was perceived as a hero. “In this day, he was the mightiest man on earth, high-born and powerful” (Heaney 15). In the poem he was known as being very brave, with all the monsters he encountered, he showed how fearless he really was no matter the ending outcome. Beowulf was a very intelligent individual, always producing a logical and articulate battle strategy that helped him overcome any obstacle. Towards the end Beowulf was a very kind courteous person who was devoted to his people, always putting their needs before his own. His goal was to keep peace throughout his community, with a safe and friendly environment for his

Compton’s by Britannica includes “Beowulf becomes king of the Geats and rules for half a century” (Britannica n.p). Clearly he was trusted enough to become the king for over half a century. His people prospered for many years and lived happily under the rule of Beowulf. “Just so I ruled the ring-Danes’ country for fifty years, defended them in wartime. With spear and sword against constant assaults by many tribes: I came to believe my enemies had faded from the face of the earth” (Heaney 121). Beowulf’s quote shows that his impact on the Danes reflects that of the British ruler during that time.

All in all, Beowulf is a brilliant piece of literature that greatly impacted the British society because of the qualities he obtained, his transformation to a mature adult, and his devotion to his society. This poem was a great impact on British society and will be told and rewritten for many years to