Perkembangan Kesusastraan dan Kebudayaan Inggris

Kanaya Nur Nabila

220705049

Cultural Values in the poem "Beowulf"

Beowulf, an epic poem from the English Medieval era, likely in the 8th to 11th centuries.
Beowulf offers insights into the cultural values, beliefs, and society of that time, and it remains
a crucial piece of English literature and a window into the Anglo-Saxon culture of the period.
Several cultural values contained in this poem such as Community and Tribe. The poem reflects
a strong sense of community and tribe. The actions of individuals often have broader
implications for their people, and the well-being of the tribe is a significant concern. It also
contains elements of both Christian and pagan beliefs. This reflects the transitional period in
which it was composed, with Christianity gradually replacing older pagan traditions. This poem
also contains heroic values related to ancient English culture. The poem celebrates the heroic
deeds of its protagonist, Beowulf. Heroism is highly valued in the society depicted in the poem,
and Beowulf's courage and strength in facing monsters like Grendel and the dragon exemplifies
this virtue. These cultural values offer insight into the society of the time and provide a
backdrop for the heroic exploits and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in the poem. Then
there are also values that show the old English culture of belief in fate. "Beowulf" reflects the
belief in fate and providence, a prevailing aspect of Anglo-Saxon culture. The characters often
attribute their successes and failures to divine will. Beowulf himself acknowledges that his
destiny is predetermined, and his ultimate fate is in the hands of fate, exemplifying the fatalistic
worldview of the time. The importance of generosity and hospitality is another cultural value
evident in the poem. Kings and lords are expected to be generous to their followers, rewarding
them with gifts and treasure for their loyalty and service. This reciprocity fosters a sense of
camaraderie and social cohesion. And the last two cultural values are about Courage and
Bravery, and about Loyalty and Kinship. The characters in "Beowulf" face many dangerous
situations, and courage in the face of adversity is a highly valued quality. Also the importance of
loyalty to the lord or king, as well as to relatives, is a prominent theme. Beowulf's loyalty to King
Hrothgar and his own people, the Geats, is at the heart of the story.