Beowulf as a Dogma

Beowulf as a Dogma
Beowulf is an ancient heroic poem written approximately between 700 and 1000 A.D. It was the first great work of England’s national literature. It was influenced by Anglo-Saxon dogmas and written anonymously. The main character in this poem is, indeed, Beowulf for whom the epic is titled. Three core canons of Anglo-Saxon life molded the story of this hero: identity, religion and loyalty.
Identity is the first central theme of Anglo-Saxon life inscribed in Beowulf. Identity is far from just a name or origin, it is the soul motivation for heroism in this ancient culture. Ancestry is of the utmost importance in Old English society. “In his far-off home Beowulf, Higlac’s Follower and the strongest of the Geats---greater and stronger than anyone anywhere in this world---” (lines 109-111) is an example of the individuality of Beowulf. He is distinguished by his origin and his relationships. Kinship...