Discuss the role of women in Beowulf. How do Wealtheow and Grendel's mother compare and contrast in their roles?
In Beowulf, women play fundamental roles within the society. They are depicted as extremely hospitable and docile within the margins of a patriarchal rule. Their sense of self worth and purpose in life are shown to be in accordance with being of service to their husbands. This best describes Wealhtheow, the wife of Hrothgar. In the text, we are first introduced to Wealhtheow as “adorned with gold, that proud woman greeted the men in the hall, [and] offered the cup” (Lines 606-607). We see her as friendly and amiable toward her guests; however, not only is she bejeweled, Wealhtheow is walking around the room carrying the cup to Hrothgar and then immediately to Beowulf, as a recognition of rank. It was her responsibility to carry out such subservient actions during those times.
In addition, Beowulf presents certain women as monsters, contrary to Wealhtheow’s character. Grendel’s mother can be placed in this category. She plays a more masculine role, rather than being adorned with jewelry and being of service to a particular ruler. Her masculinity and physical strength exert influence upon the society. She is extremely violent and settles her disputes through aggressive means. Grendel’s mother instills fear while; Wealhtheow instills comfort and happiness throughout the society.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Beowulf: Essential #1
What are the social obligations of a hero? Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?
The social obligations of a leader are bravery and dedication to ones people. A hero must be willing to protect its people while also moving them forward by prosperous means. In Beowulf it is said that Scyld Scefing “terrified his foes…until the men of every neighboring tribe…were obliged to obey him and pay him tribute” (Lines 6-10). It is clear that a leader must be willing to destroy those against him and his people and in return acquire “praise and honor” (Line 8). Also, a leader must be valiant in military battles, which can be attributed to Hrothgar. He “won honor in war, glory in battle, and so ensured his followers’ support” (Line 64-66). Due to his willingness to give of himself in war, it can be understood that a hero must be other-centered in order to ensure safety among his community. A leader must also be stern yet compassionate, bold yet kind, and give orders but also be considerate. Furthermore, we can come to the conclusion that through such social obligations, he “who wins renown will always prosper among any people” (Line 24-25).
Beowulf is certainly aware of his deification process. However, unlike several men, Beowulf has a sense of humility in his acknowledgment of his deification process. In the beginning of the poem, “Beowulf searched out the bravest of the Geats, asked them to go with him” (Lines 205-206). If he was not aware of his honor and might, Beowulf would have not made such a long journey in order to be of service to Hrothgar. Beowulf explains that he has come “with most honorable intentions” (Line 265) which sheds light on his modest disposition and also his confidence in the fact that he can be of great aid. Beowulf’s daring and poised nature certainly gives way to the understanding that he is indeed aware of his becoming idealized and adored.
The social obligations of a leader are bravery and dedication to ones people. A hero must be willing to protect its people while also moving them forward by prosperous means. In Beowulf it is said that Scyld Scefing “terrified his foes…until the men of every neighboring tribe…were obliged to obey him and pay him tribute” (Lines 6-10). It is clear that a leader must be willing to destroy those against him and his people and in return acquire “praise and honor” (Line 8). Also, a leader must be valiant in military battles, which can be attributed to Hrothgar. He “won honor in war, glory in battle, and so ensured his followers’ support” (Line 64-66). Due to his willingness to give of himself in war, it can be understood that a hero must be other-centered in order to ensure safety among his community. A leader must also be stern yet compassionate, bold yet kind, and give orders but also be considerate. Furthermore, we can come to the conclusion that through such social obligations, he “who wins renown will always prosper among any people” (Line 24-25).
Beowulf is certainly aware of his deification process. However, unlike several men, Beowulf has a sense of humility in his acknowledgment of his deification process. In the beginning of the poem, “Beowulf searched out the bravest of the Geats, asked them to go with him” (Lines 205-206). If he was not aware of his honor and might, Beowulf would have not made such a long journey in order to be of service to Hrothgar. Beowulf explains that he has come “with most honorable intentions” (Line 265) which sheds light on his modest disposition and also his confidence in the fact that he can be of great aid. Beowulf’s daring and poised nature certainly gives way to the understanding that he is indeed aware of his becoming idealized and adored.
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