Journal 4

Anglo-Saxons had the same social class system as in Beowulf. They had a kingdom that had a king and an army. Peasants worked the fields and animals roamed free. Heroes were huge and honored greatly when they came to the kingdom. If a hero wanted, he could have the people go against the king and follow him but they don’t. The go to the kingdom and honor the king with their services. Staying loyal is a huge symbol in the Anglo-Saxon period. Beowulf came to Hrothgar’s kingdom to help him get rid of an evil monster that was disturbing his kingdom. All Hrothgar wanted was to keep his kingdom and his people safe. Beowulf wanted to honor the king and do as he asked. Beowulf risked his life for a king he just met but Beowulf believed that death brought something greater. This gave Beowulf the advantage of a hero because he had the mindset of one. Anglo-Saxons were strong people and loved power. Beowulf defeating Grendel would give the kingdom power such as the Anglo-Saxons desired. Loyalty and power were themes that occured in Beowulf regularly and also fit in with the Anglo-Saxon society.