Beowulf in Relation to Anglo-Saxton Beliefs and Values In the epic poem, Beowulf, there are many references of Anglo-Saxton beliefs and values and the effects they have on the characters and the outcome of the story. As the setting of the story takes place in Anglo-Saxton times, these beliefs and values were well represented and well valued by the many characters of the story, such as Beowulf, Hygelac, Hrothgar, and Wiglaf. The Anglo-Saxton values consisted of generosity, friendship, loyalty, and bravery. Anglo-Saxtons also desired their kings to be chivalrous, powerful, and daring. Most importantly, the epic reveals the values of Anglo-Saxton society in its chivalry code, as well as the code of knighthood. Beowulf demonstrates Anglo-Saxton values and beliefs by strengthening …show more content…
Beowulf strengthens the heroic code by indirectly stating that a hero must possess the characteristics that society finds to be the most important and honorable for a hero. The epic designates Beowulf as a prominent hero in Anglo-Saxton standards, as he possessed bravery, honor, loyalty, and spoke in an elevated language throughout the story. The first lines of the epic state how the past kings showed Anglo-Saxton heroic qualities, and give a preview of the epic will be told, specifically. “So. The Spear-Danes in days gone by and the kings who ruled them had courage and greatness…There was Shield Sheafson, scourge of many tribes, a wrecker of mead-benches, rampaging among foes…A foundling to start with, he would flourish to later on as his