Beowulf

The outspoken masterpiece of the English literature Beowulf is the most prominent example of a classic Anglo-Saxon written composition. The articulated verses of the implemented heroic acts were recorded back in the 700 A.D. For instance, until that time it has long been shifting across the verbal declarative tradition of the land. Despite the fact that the author of the Beowulf remained unknown, the literary piece established the roots of the modern English literature. The described events in the poem most certainly reflect the times of the Anglo – Saxon invasion of the British Isle along with Scandinavian folk. The occupation led to the active circulation of a few tightly connected German languages, which were destined to expand into the existing English speech. The most compelling fact is the correspondence of the depicted occasions with the authentic personalities.

The essential significance over the first century of the poem’s standing was the provided historical data. Until 1936 it was regarded as a source of guidance through the Anglo – Saxon time. In fact, plentiful of the characters in Beowulf were real people, who constituted the royal Danish and Swedish families. Interestingly, the poem was narrated by a Christian, in spite of the pagan origins. It is filled with examples of the genuine Christian ethics. Characters of Beowulf are criticized by the narrator for their improper behavior. It is distinctly seen that they should possess the code of morality and principles that lay the foundation of Christianity. Heroism is the most prominent theme of the poem. Even the code of behavior evolved around the courageous motifs for action. Strength and power were to be dominant features of a warrior. Such traits as loyalty, generosity and hospitality were the most necessary virtues of a decent person.

Within the mentioned year of 1936 a splendid writer J. R. R. Tolkien, who happened to produce The Hobbit as well as The Lord of the Rings, brought fame to Beowulf as a piece of literature rather than historical manuscript (Lehrer, 2007). His innovative research enabled the poem to obtain international recognition as the most important literary work that was a foundation of composition and root of contemporary English language. After the publication the impact on the writers was considerable. Nowadays, the poem is widely discussed and analyzed at educational establishments. Its role in the emergence of the English literature that the society inherited cannot be underestimated.