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Beowulf

 

            
             The fragment between lines 1724-1769 of Burton Raffel's translation of Beowulf includes many important elements of Anglo Saxon culture and epic poem characteristics. In order to understand this passage, information has to be carefully analyzed; and if done correctly crucial facts regarding the rest of the literally work can be found in these 45 lines. .
             The text starts off by making great use of most of the Anglo Saxon stylistic traits. First of all, and like at many other points during the poem, an epithet to name God is used; Hrothgar uses "eternal Lord". He then uses three nouns to refer to the three "immortals" of the Anglo Saxon society, wisdom, wealth and greatness to allude to the king, leaders and warriors. Later, once again, the anonymous writer uses two epithets to make allusion to God and the Devil, giving out a clear example of Christian symbolism (pairs of necessary opposites). This time he calls God the "keeper of his Soul" and utilizes "a murderer" to refer to the Devil. In line 1751 heaven is referred to as "future glory" and "eternal happiness", the place to rest after accomplishing everything you have to do in life. Another important epithet is the one used by the Dane's King while .
             Burgos-Galindo 2.
             referring to Beowulf, "best of warriors." Right after, in an attempt to call upon Beowulf's attention, the old King uses irony to tell the hero that he will have to return his attributes to the place where they came from. They will fade away, like all good things do, and it will happen faster than he thinks it will.
             This small section of the book also includes many Anglo Saxon culture traits. At the very beginning a clear example of predestination is shown. Only the chosen ones by God will grow famous, rich or powerful. Hrothgar reminds Beowulf "[ ] that it will all end, and too soon?"(1734). And that he, who in human unwisdom, does not care about anyone else. Fails to accomplish and follow the system of mutual obligation- reciprocal duty and loyalty.


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