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Activity 3 Readers Response

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Activity 3 Readers Response

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mlbelmonte23
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Mythology and Folklore


ENGL0813

Reader’s Response

Write a Criticism of the epic, Beowulf.

Meanwhile, after several years, the king of Geatland is assassinated, and Beowulf
eventually succeeds. Beowulf proves to be an excellent king for fifty years, during which the
country of Geatland prospers. As Beowulf reaches old age, a thief breaks into a lair in which
a dragon has hidden an enormous store of treasure. The thief steals some of the treasure and
inflames the dragon. The dragon vents its rage at the Geats by burning up the town
periodically. So it falls to Beowulf once more.

Beowulf, who is likely in his seventies, leads an army into the hunt for the dragon. When
they arrive, the army turns tail, and it is left to Beowulf and his young ward Wiglaf to do the
fighting. Together, they slay the dragon; Beowulf, however, is mortally wounded.

Beowulf, an Old English epic poem, is a complex and multifaceted work that invites
diverse interpretations. One prominent critical perspective focuses on the poem's exploration
of heroism and its limitations. Beowulf, the titular hero, embodies strength, courage, and
loyalty, yet his actions are also marked by flaws and contradictions. His relentless pursuit of
glory, for instance, leads him to make risky decisions, ultimately contributing to his demise.
Furthermore, the poem's depiction of heroism is not monolithic; other characters, such as
Wiglaf, demonstrate alternative forms of heroism, prompting a critical examination of what
constitutes true heroism.

Another critical lens through which to view Beowulf is its portrayal of societal values and the
clash between pagan and Christian ideologies. The poem's setting in a pre-Christian Anglo-Saxon
society is evident in its emphasis on fate, glory, and the heroic code. However, the presence of
Christian elements, such as references to God and the concept of salvation, suggests a blending of
belief systems. This comparison allows for a critical analysis of the evolving cultural landscape
and the conflict between traditional values and emerging religious beliefs.

According to Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory of personality, the superego is the


component of personality, which is composed of our internalized ideals that we have learned from
our parents and society. The superego tries to repress the id impulses and strives to have the ego
behave ethically instead of rationally (Van Wagner). In reality, Beowulf knew that he was going to
die. Still, he was the king. It was his duty to protect his subjects, unworthy as they were, even if it
meant dying for them.

The poem's narrative structure and poetic style also warrant critical attention. The use of
kennings, alliterative verse, and digressions contributes to the poem's unique aesthetic quality but
also presents challenges for interpretation. The digressions, while adding richness and depth, can
sometimes disrupt the narrative flow, prompting critical discussions on their purpose and effect.
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The poem's fragmented nature and the loss of potential sections also necessitate a critical
awareness of the limitations of the surviving text.

Finally, a feminist critique of Beowulf might focus on the limited roles afforded to women.
While women are present, their agency is often constrained by patriarchal structures, prompting a
critical examination of gender dynamics and power imbalances within the poem's world.

References:
Learning Module 3 - Mythology and Folklore
Course Packet 06 | The British Isle: Beowulf

GROUP MEMBERS:
Abantao, Arianne Joy P.
Baltazar, Jenalyn V.
Belmonte, Mariel L.
David Jodylyn B.

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