Beowulf is an epic poem that reflects upon the virtues of loyalty, courage, and honor that are embodied in the Anglo-Saxon way of life. This heroic adventure tells the tale of Beowulf, a powerful and brave knight, whose fame is known throughout the land. His character exemplifies the Germanic hero, and consequently the Anglo-Saxon ideal: strong, fearless, bold, loyal, and stoic in his acceptance of fate. With the absence of humility, yet his important role in society and his ideals of chivalry, Beowulf was the definition of a hero in his own time. When Beowulf heard of Grendel, the powerful monster that had been disemboweling people for over twelve years; he took 13 of his bravest warriors and went to hrothgar to help his king. .
"And a young prince must be prudent like that,.
giving freely while his father lives.
so that afterwards in age when fighting starts.
steadfast companions will stand by him.
and hold the line. Behavior that's admired.
is the path to power among people everywhere." (20-25).
This selection, which illustrates the emphasis on the loyalty of the warriors, has a special meaning to Beowulf because of the reaction of his men when he fought the dragon. Beowulf's men deserted him during his time of need. Only Wiglaf stayed by his side and offered complete support in order to help him defeat the dragon. "And then when Beowulf needed him most, Wiglaf showed his courage, his strength, and skill, and the boldness he was born with." (2694-2696) The heroic code's system of loyalties is valued greatly but there is no attempt to disguise the fact that it is motivated by the need to receive the support of warrior's followers. The warrior culture accepts and embraces this give-and-take relationship between ruler and ruled as necessary for society to function effectively. This passage also emphasizes the importance of behavior in securing the respect and support of others. Because this warrior society so highly values its heroic code, it highly esteems those who conform to the code's principles.
