Lecture Notes: Beowulf and Its Legacy

Introduction to Beowulf

• Importance: Considered one of the most important works of Old English literature.
• Influence: Has influenced contemporary fantasy works, such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
• Endurance: Continues to delight readers worldwide.

Origins of Beowulf

• Authorship: Written by an anonymous poet.
• Composition Date: Believed to have been composed between 700 and 750.
• Literary Style: Known for alliteration, suggesting origins in oral traditions.
• Setting: Takes place in Scandinavia, roughly between the late 5th and early 8th centuries.
• Cultural Mix: Combines pagan and Christian traditions.

Discovery and Preservation

• Archaeological Claims: 2013 discovery of ruins of Harrow, Denmark, potentially related to the poem's setting.
• Manuscript History: Likely written by two monks in England; dated to the early 11th century.
• Current Location: Manuscript resides in the British Museum.
• Popularity: Among the most translated texts in history.

Story Overview

• Plot Summary:
  • Begins with King Hrothgar of the Danes terrorized by Grendel.
  • Beowulf, a young Geat warrior, aids Hrothgar, defeating Grendel without weapons.
  • Grendel's mother seeks revenge; Beowulf kills her with a magical sword.
  • Beowulf becomes king of the Geats and later battles a dragon.
  • Beowulf defeats the dragon but is poisoned and dies, passing his armor to Wiglaf.
  • The narrative concludes with Beowulf's heroic death and funeral.

Symbolism in Beowulf

• Grendel: Represents evil and jealousy; a descendant of Cain.
• Dragon: Symbolizes greed, hoarding treasure.
• Heorot Hall: Symbolizes happiness, pride, and distress.

Themes in Beowulf

• Heroic Code: Loyalty, pride, and glory as central values.
• Good vs. Evil: The struggle between Beowulf and Grendel.
• Loyalty: A guiding force in the narrative.
• Death and Defeat: The inevitable nature of death.
• Hospitality: Importance of hospitable feasts for guests.

Conclusion

• Legacy: Beowulf's lasting impact on literature and its role in shaping epic narratives.