Anglo Saxon Ideals in Beowulf
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The epic Beowulf has many connections to the Anglo-Saxon ideals and traditions. In Beowulf's final battle against the dragon, he is ultimately fated to his death. Only one man, Wiglaf, remained standing steadfastly by his leader's side. These men truly represent the morality and values of the Anglo-Saxon culture.
Throughout the epic, it is evident that law and order were primary responsibilities of the leader in any given group, from families to kingdoms. Citizens were expected to prove absolute loyalty to their leader. This devotion often determined a person's fame, wealth, and sometimes survival. A person's success was then measured in the amount of recognition and gifts a commoner received from his leader. (pg. 11) Wiglaf proved his loyalty to Beowulf in a speech delivered to the army of men, in which he states, "And we must go to him/help/Our glorious king!..