Beowulf

1
Beowulf

• Anglo-Saxon Epic Poem
• Written in LEGIT Old English
• Heroic Narrative
• Composed some time between the middle of the 7th
  and the end of the 10th century
• Originally an oral tradition then written down
• Originally pagan became Christian
• We dont know who wrote it, but dozens have
  translated it

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Tolkiens Definition of the Hero

• the actual heathen warriorused his great gift
  of strength to earn glory and praise among men
  and posterity
• - Beowulf The Monsters and the Critics (c.
  1936)

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Tolkiens Heroic Ideal

• Strength
• Glory
• Praise Among Men
• Posterity
• From the Latin posterus, meaning coming after
• Basically, you will be remembered in the
  generations coming after you.

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Comitatus

• A warrior band that pledges allegiance to one
  another, and to a lord.
• In return for loyalty in battle, the members
  receive treasure and entertainment.
• The expectation is that you will fight in battle
  with the lord until your death.
• Defined by the philosopher Tacitus.

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Comitatus