Essay on Women’s Roles in the Epic of Beowulf - 1143 Words

Women’s Roles in Beowulf Are women in this poem active equals of the men? Or are they passive victims of the men? The role of the women in Beowulf is not a stereotyped one of passive homemaker, but rather one having freedom of choice, range of activity, and room for personal growth and development, such as is reflected in Anglo-Saxon England of the time. Beowulf makes reference to Ingeld and his wife and the coming Heathobard feud: in that hot passion his love for peace-weaver, his wife, will cool (2065-66) This is a rare passage, for Anglo-Saxon poetry rarely mentions romantic feelings toward women. In†¦show more content†¦Queen Welhtheow wa giving such advice to King Hrothgar concerning his sons’ succession to the throne: Accept this cup, my noble lord, gold-giving king; be filled in your joys, treasure-friend to all, and give to the Geats your kind words, as is proper for men; in your generous mind, be gracious to the Weders, remembering the gifts you have from all tribes. I have been told you would have this warrior for your son. Heorot is cleansed, bright hall of rings; use while you may your gifts from so many, and leave to your kinsmen the nation and folk when you must go forth to await your judgment. Full well I know of my gracious Hrothulf that he would rule the young men in honor, would keep all well, if you should give up this world before him. I expect he will want to repay our sons only with good once he recalls all we have done when he was younger to honor his desires and his name in the world(1169-87). This dignified plea showed how much statusShow MoreRelatedAnglo-Saxon Literature Was Composed Between The Years 6501510 Words   |  7 Pagesand 1110. Beowulf is one of the most famous epics written during this time. It’s also known as the oldest surviving Germanic epic and the longest Old English poem. Most stories written during this time were about the deeds of warriors, heroic acts, and religion. 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