Though it is often viewed both as an exemplary Anglo-Saxon epic and as a foundation of contemporary literature, Beowulf has an unusual account that obscures both its historical and its orthodox position in English writing. Beowulf displays the importance of one's lineage, the "heroic code" of the Germanic society, and elements of the Christian versus pagan beliefs throughout the epic poem.
In early Germanic culture, a man's family lineage was among the most respected and valuable aspects of one's life. "Who you are" was vital in this male-dominated warrior culture. The poem began with a tribute to the ancestry of King Hrothgar. This tribute displayed patriarchal lineage as being an extremely significant piece of one's character. For example, Beowulf's own lineage was spoken of "Beowulf, son of Scyld" in the very beginning of the epic, and again throughout the story as "Beowulf of the Geats" . .
Several times in the story, Grendel's relation to Cain was mentioned, presenting the beasts to have a lineage of their own. One main difference in the lineage of Grendel was that the mother figure was dominant, which was against the beliefs of the Danes and the Geats. King Hrothgar proclaimed, "They are fatherless creatures, and their whole ancestry is hidden." Having a hidden ancestry was considered to be evil in Germanic culture, which placed such great precedence on honoring one's lineage. Along with a distinct lineage, the "heroic code" was held dear in society.
"It is always better to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning When a warrior is gone, glory will be his best and only bulwark." Beowulf explained this to Hrothgar in a speech regarding his feelings of the heroic code. Not only was this code avid among the humans, but among the beasts as well. Grendel's mother set out to avenge the death of her son after Beowulf murdered him in the mead-hall. It was believed that the only way to make a lasting reputation was to be famous and glorified, which come from vengeance.
