Jordan Kelly
Brit Lit
Period 6
9/4/13
Anglo-Saxon literature has survived for hundreds of years as home of many great classics and gains new fans to its archaic diction regularly. In the epic poem, The Beowulf, or more commonly known as , Beowulf, tells the tale of Beowulf, the main character and epic hero of the poem, and the plights of the Danes. This Anglo-Saxon epic, although great, has received many different, contrasting criticisms. J.R.R.Tolkien, one of the more popular critics of the epic, has given some strong and accurate points, but falls short on others.
In his essay, J.R.R.Tolkien stated that Beowulf should not be approached as a historical document because, “its poetry is so interesting that it overshadows its historical context.”(Tolkien 247). I agree with Tolkien because although there is some factual historical context, the poetry: demons, dragons, witches, and Beowulf’s unparalleled strength, etc. easily eclipse the historical aspects of the Danes. Moreover, the poem’s supernatural aspects just simply outweigh its natural and historical contexts.
Beowulf’s story, although highly fiction, is nothing short of a story, contrary to J.R.R.Tolkien’s view on the epic. Tolkien stated that, “there is nothing much in the story.” (Tolkien 251). This is a huge exaggeration as there was more to Beowulf than Beowulf being too preoccupied with fighting to save the, and eventually his, people. Before his death, Beowulf was a strong leader in terms of Anglo-Saxon literature, as he was able to, although short, enjoy time with his friends and people of his kingdom-especially during the 50 winters of peace. His battles were only emphasized as a means of gaining the attention of the reader. Beowulf is nothing more or less of an Anglo-Saxon epic that is viewed and adored by thousands.
