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Essay / Changing Societal Values: An Analysis of Heroes and...
Sir Gawain, the Green Knight and Beowulf come from different periods and societies. Written in Middle English and Old English respectively, the authors of the two epics remain unknown. However, historians know that culture and societal values will influence the authors' stories and narratives. Although written in different countries and times, Beowulf and Sir Gawain, as heroes, have similar morality, but differ in religion and definition of civility. Therefore, to be heroes, one must not only follow what their culture dictates, but also be moral by following a set of rules universally accepted as ethical. This is important for understanding the effect of cultural influences on people and what humans consider necessary qualities to possess. To begin with, Beowulf represents the warrior culture he lives in through his quest for glory and the dilemmas he faces. To begin with, he is a product of his environment. Beowulf, as a warrior, decides “not to cut short [Grendel’s] life with a sharp sword” (679-680). His reason is that it is “too simple a matter” (680). Beowulf desires the fame that will come from slaying a monster with raw strength that most men could not achieve with the help of modern technology. These are qualities that the Germanic heroic code instills in its followers. He also boasts of his encounters with sea monsters when he says: “Bizarre often saves the uncondemned man if he is not intimidated” (572-3). The theme of fate in Germanic society appears in Beowulf's speech. Likewise, he claims that he remains "fearless" even though he faces nine sea monsters. The idea of fearlessness, even in the most certain death, is a quality required by the warrior code. Part of the universal heroic code...... middle of paper...... one of the best his society has to offer, represents the Germanic code in all aspects of life. From the quest for gold to royal duties, Beowulf fulfills all the requirements of warrior discipline without fail. On the other hand, Sir Gawain also performs his duties as a chivalrous knight. He follows the code to the letter and prays continually. Through their complete embodiment of their society, the reader can compare and contrast with the heroes to learn more about their culture. Interestingly, the only difference is fame and wealth. Therefore, over time, cultures and societies, which come together to enable the exchange of ideas, may only see a change in civility and religion, but not in moral values such as loyalty, honesty and leadership. Overall, Beowulf and Sir Gawain represent their societies and codes through their actions, virtues and values..