Loyalty is an honored trait in the story of Beowulf as in many medieval tales. The idea of chivalry, that code of proper behavior that is associated with medieval knights, centers around loyalty - loyalty to a leader, to friends, and to love. In Beowulf, we see loyalty to leaders many times. When hearing of the attacks by Grendel, Beowulf rushes to the aid of Hrothgar, a friend of his father's. It is loyalty to the father that gives Beowulf the cause to be there. Beowulf brings his bravest soldiers with him, and those soldiers go because they are loyal to Beowulf - even though the stories of Grendel's attacks are terrifying. They sleep in the castle with Beowulf despite the fact that Grendel's attacks have sent other soldiers away. Beowulf is their leader and they will do what he asks.
When Grendel is killed, his mother vows vengeance on Beowulf. Her desire for revenge comes from love and loyalty to her son.
Later in Beowulf's life, he vows to protect his village from the attack of the dragon. Although much older, he goes off alone, believing it is his duty. This is his loyalty to his own people. He could send others to fight the dragon, but instead he takes it upon himself. Wiglaf goes with him, by his own choice, believing it is his duty to protect his leader and, in doing so, he remains loyal to his leader.
No comments:
Post a Comment