imagery in beowulf essay

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The narrator uses rich imagery in describing the beginning of Beowulf’s journey to travel to the land of the Danes and defeat Grendel in fulfillment of his father’s debt to Hrothgar. After Beowulf and his band of brave Geatish warriors board a boat to head to present-day Denmark, the narrator states: 

On board they climbed,  warriors ready; waves were churning  sea with sand; the sailors bore on the breast of the bark their bright array,  their mail and weapons: the men pushed off,  on its willing way, the well-braced craft. Then moved o'er the waters by might of the wind  that bark like a bird with breast of foam, till in season due, on the second day, the curved prow such course had run  that sailors now could see the land,  sea-cliffs shining, steep high hills,  headlands broad. Their haven was found,  their journey ended. Cite this Quote

Here, the narrator paints a detailed picture of the scene. As the boat embarks, the sand mixes with the “churning” sea and the sailors glitter in their “bright array” of weapons and armor. The narrator invokes various senses, including sight and sound. The whistling winds “bark like a bird” and batter the “breast of foam” on the surface of the water. When they reach their destination, the warriors see “sea-cliffs shining, steep high hills / headlands broad.” Here, the narrator’s imagery is lush and detailed, marking the beginning of their journey as an important moment in the narrative. 

The narrator uses both imagery and hyperbole to depict the frenzied scene in which Grendel attacks the mead-hall Heorot:

Angry were both those savage hall-guards: the house resounded. Wonder it was the wine-hall firm in the strain of their struggle stood, to earth  the fair house fell not; too fast it was  within and without by its iron bands  craftily clamped; though there crashed from sill  many a mead-bench—men have told me— gay with gold, where the grim foes wrestled. So well had weened the wisest Scyldings  that not ever at all might any man that bone-decked, brave house break asunder,  crush by craft,—unless clasp of fire  in smoke engulfed it. Again uprose din redoubled. Cite this Quote

Here, the imagery is sharp and focused, drawing from multiple senses, including sight and sound. The narrator notes the long, noisy “din” that fills the hall, the shaking of the building’s walls, and the benches that crash as they are flung during the climactic fight between Grendel and Beowulf. The narrator also uses hyperbole, claiming that it was a “wonder” that the hall did not collapse entirely during the course of the fight, but later acknowledging that the well-made building would “not ever” actually fall unless by fire. The narration in this scene, then, with its vivid imagery and hyperbolic language, emphasizes the scale of this momentous fight. 

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The Poem “Beowulf”: Prologue Analysis Essay (Critical Writing)

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The objective of a literary analysis is to study and, at times, assess a literary work or a facet of a literary piece. As with any analysis, one must disassemble the topic into its component elements. Examining the many components of a literary work is not a goal in itself, but rather a means to a greater appreciation and comprehension of the work as a whole. Any study of a poem could, for instance, focus on the many sorts of imagery or the link between tone and content. The attached extract is a piece from the Beowulf’s poem. The prologue contains extensive use of poetic elements, including imagery, alliteration, litotes, and kennings. The paper will discuss the extract’s key themes and characters, as well as its use of poetic techniques.

The prologue employs allegory to communicate a message that is not directly stated in the extract. Allegory, which comprises genres such as fable, metaphor, and apologue, may contain several layers of meaning that the reader must interpret to comprehend. 1 Essentially, literary allegories illustrate circumstances and occurrences or represent abstract concepts via tangible things, people, and activities. This prologue exemplifies the personification approach, in which a fictitious figure in this instance, Wielder of Wonder, in line 18 openly embodies an idea or a type of a strong man. 2 As in most allegories, the dramatic action “represents” something that is not explicitly expressed.

Old English literature, often known as Anglo-Saxon literature, is employed by Beowulf in the prologue. English literature for a description of this time within the context of the history of English poetry is used in the prologue. 3 This is alliterative writing; one of its characteristics is the kenning, a metaphorical word used in place of a common noun (“spear-armed Danes “for “a strong man”) in line 2 of the extract. The kenning is an essential element of Old English poetry. A kenning is a typically stereotyped representation that defines one entity in context of another; for example, in Beowulf’s preamble, the sea is referred to as the whale path (Line 10). Another example of kenning in the Beowulf ’s foreword is the phrase “mead-bench tore” (line 5), which describes a sturdy man, emulating the size of the seat at the Germanic feast.

Heroic poetry is a descriptive verse, which is exalted in tone and employs a noble, dramatic, and formal style to chronicle the exploits of magnificent warriors and kings. It is often improvised and sung or read to the accompaniment of stringed instruments. It is passed down from bard to bard verbally over decades. 4 The known corpus of heroic poetry varies from very ancient to contemporary works created over a vast geographical region (the Danes). It contains what are likely the oldest forms of this verse: panegyrics honoring a hero’s ancestry and accomplishments, as well as laments on his death as described as,” awing the earls. Since erst he lay” (line 6).

The narrative is enlivened by Beowulf’s use of poetic elements like alliteration, hyperbole, and imagery. For instance, practically every sentence of the extract has alliteration. The recurrence of a letter that resonates with the phrase guarantees that each line stimulates the creativity and feelings of the listener, ultimately increasing the listening experience. Imagery from the extract from Beowulf’s poem is challenging and usually amusing, since it appeals to the senses. Beowulf uses powerful imagery when he relates how people saw him emerge from the wars by stating, “For he waxed under welkin, in wealth he throve” (Line 8). The frequent use of imagery in Beowulf’s extract also gives the epic poem vitality and zest. For example, the author compares the ocean to a whale-path (Line 10). Therefore, the inclusion of kenning enriches the epic prologue’s poem’s imagery. 5

Furthermore, the prologue from Beowulf’s poem uses exaggeration, which makes the piece more interesting, captivating, and theatrical. The prologue, for instance, exaggerates Beowulf’s powers by describing him as, “the Wielder of Wonder, with world’s renown” (Line 17). This shows that, in the contest with the enemies, the poet relates the King’s powers and strengths to his, “the prowess of people-kings” (Line 1). This is an exaggeration as there is no evidence to the readers that the King is the strongest “world’s renown” (Line 17). The prologue also employs hyperbole to indicate an exaggerated statement. For example, the poet states that the King, “…waxed under welkin…” (Line 8). This is a hyperbole as the statement meant that he not only gained fame among his people, but also he grew in fame under the eyes of the heavens. In this case, the heavens are a perception of the mind, and cannot tell the exact activities within the heavens that made the King to be famous. Therefore, using poetic techniques not only gets the reader’s imagination going, but also makes the poem interesting to read.

The prologue also employs symbolism to represent a range of concepts. For instance, the poet claims, “Oft Scyld the Scefing from squadroned foes,” which is translated as the Shield Sheafson, the contemporary English connotation for the great-grandfather of Hrothgar, the King of the Danes, during Beowulf’s time. In this case, the first line of the prologue is devoted to the Scyld’s reign and to his intricate funeral. As such, Scyld Scefing is a mythical figure, meaning, Scyld was the originator of the tribe of the Scyldings long before Beowulf’s section began. Consequently, his ship funeral based on the prologue in the poem is a noteworthy ritual. Hrothgar, the aged king of the Danes, welcomes Beowulf’s support in fronting the menace of the enemy.

The title figure embodies one of the prologue’s primary ideas, which is fidelity. Beowulf is faithful throughout his whole life, which is one of the primary reasons Beowulf thrived as a king. Consequently, Beowulf felt obligated to repay charity by giving forth his son, “To him an heir was afterward born” (Line 12). Therefore, Beowulf is more devoted than driven by the virtues of the master and the lordship of the king. Allegiance to the King is also prominent in the prologue, making the rest of the Kingdom to the King’s leadership to be adored, “till before him the folk, both far and near.” To mean that the king had both friends and enemies, and in this regards, the servant leader, stays faithful to his king and aids the King in vanquishing the monster. Thus, Beowulf is more devoted than driven by the virtues of the master and the lordship of the king. Therefore, the prologue’s central topic is fidelity, loyalty and lordship.

The prologue shows that the extract is derived from an epic poem, which describes a lengthy narrative poem that designates a hero’s hardships and victories. The foreword describes Beowulf’s journey from wars to the Danes. Even the coast guard reports that in all the years he has served his King, he has never encountered a bigger and strong man in the king by claiming, “Wielder of Wonder, with world’s renown.” He has the demeanor of a magnificent leader, a champion, and maybe a prince, despite his youth by positing, “what honor the athelings won!… gave him gifts: a good king he!” The account demonstrates his extraordinary strength, bravery, and endurance. 6 As a result, he faithfully serves the King with due respect and honor. The poem is an epic because it is mostly about how brave Beowulf is.

Litote is a figure of speech and a kind of oversimplification whereby a feeling is communicated humorously by denying its opposite. When a situation is downplayed, the reader or listener may better comprehend its gravity since their perception can be more horrifying than the scenario itself. During a storm, for instance, stating “It’s not the best weather today” would be an example of litotes, conveying via sarcastic subtlety that the weather is indeed terrible. 7 In Beowulf’s prologue, the narrator uses litote in the line, “to favor the folk, feeling their woe.” In this case, it is a hyperbolical understatement to argue that the same folks that would receive favor are the same people that will be under woe, meaning distress, and sorrow. 8 As such, the reader then imagines a tense scenario since the author encourages them to do so.

In conclusion, the Beowulf’s prologue is a balance of beginnings and ends, of youth and age, with Beowulf’s youth predominating. The preface is an epic since it covers Beowulf’s life and vividly depicts his heroic and amazing actions. While the epic has historical significance, it is more engaging as a powerful piece of art. The epic also employs poetic elements to enhance the reader’s experience. The frequent use of alliteration enhances the imagination of the listener, since the sound of the words resonates with the activities described by the poet in the epic. Additionally, the use of analogies, images, and exaggeration enhances the poem’s atmosphere. Symbolism is also prevalent, and it helps readers connect the items mentioned in a prologue to what they signify. Beowulf and King Hrothgar are primarily responsible for illustrating the notion of loyalty throughout the epic. Other key themes, such as vengeance and jealousy, depict how the culture of the period exhibited these two characteristics. As the author describes how several characters in the poem exchanged gifts as a sign of gratitude, it is clear that hospitality and charity are present. The preamble is historically significant, but it is more noteworthy as a strong piece of art.

Bibliography

Arbi, Siti Angreini. “Analysis of Imagery in Five Selected Poems by Maya Angelou.” British ( Jurnal Bahasa dan Sastra Inggris ) vol.7, no. 1 (2019): 43-59.

Ashurova, Shahnoza. “” Beowulf”-the largest monument of anglo-saxon epic poetry.” Chet tillarni o’qitishda dolzarb muammolar, innovatsiyalar, an’analar, yechimlar va badiiy adabiyotlar tahlili, vol. 1, no. 01 (2022): 75-78.

Buzec, Mihaela. “Functional Names in Beowulf: An Analysis.” Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai-Philologia, vol. 64, no. 4 (2019): 185-194.

Christensen, Alexander. “Beowulf and Litotes: A Pragmatic Approach.” Schwa (2020): 23.

Jenkins, Priscilla. “Conscience: The Frustration of Allegory.” In Piers Plowman, pp. 125-142. Routledge, 2019.

Park, Jong-Seong. “ What Is an Oral Heroic Epic Poetry?–Overcoming The Limit Of The Iliad .” International Journal of Korean Humanities and Social Sciences 5 (2019): 57-65. Web.

Yuan, Ying. “Litotes and Repetition.” The Routledge Handbook of Language and Persuasion (2022).

Zálešák, Ján. “ of Thesis: The Flaws of Heroism in Old English Literature .” (2022): 1-60. Web.

Jenkins, Priscilla. “Conscience: The Frustration of Allegory.” In Piers Plowman , p. 126. Routledge, 2019.

Buzec, Mihaela. “Functional Names in Beowulf: An Analysis.” Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai-Philologia 64, no. 4 (2019): 187.

Zálešák, Ján. “of Thesis: The Flaws of Heroism in Old English Literature.” (2022): 16.

PARK, Jong-Seong. “What Is an Oral Heroic Epic Poetry?–Overcoming The Limit Of The Iliad.” International Journal of Korean Humanities and Social Sciences 5 (2019): 58.

Arbi, Siti Angreini. “Analysis of Imagery in Five Selected Poems by Maya Angelou.” British (Jurnal Bahasa dan Sastra Inggris) vol.7, no. 1 (2019): 44.

Ashurova, Shahnoza. “” Beowulf”-the largest monument of anglo-saxon epic poetry.” Chet tillarni o’qitishda dolzarb muammolar, innovatsiyalar, an’analar, yechimlar va badiiy adabiyotlar tahlili 1, no. 01 (2022): 75-78.

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Imagery In Beowulf

Beowulf is an epic poem that is rich in vivid imagery, which serves to enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of the story. The use of imagery in Beowulf helps to create a vivid and immersive world for the reader, allowing them to visualize the events and characters in their minds. This essay will explore the various types of imagery used in Beowulf and discuss their significance in the poem.

One of the most prominent types of imagery in Beowulf is visual imagery. The poet uses detailed descriptions to paint a picture in the reader's mind. For example, when describing Grendel, the monster that Beowulf must defeat, the poet writes, "The monster stepped onto the shining floor, his eyes gleaming with malice." This description allows the reader to visualize Grendel's menacing presence and sets the tone for the battle that is about to take place.

In addition to visual imagery, Beowulf also employs auditory imagery to engage the reader's senses. The poet uses words and phrases that evoke sounds, such as "the clash of swords" and "the roar of battle." These auditory images help to create a sense of excitement and tension, immersing the reader in the action of the poem.

Another type of imagery used in Beowulf is tactile imagery, which appeals to the sense of touch. The poet describes the physical sensations experienced by the characters, such as the feeling of a sword in their hands or the warmth of a fire. This tactile imagery adds depth and realism to the poem, allowing the reader to connect with the characters on a more visceral level.

In addition to these sensory images, Beowulf also incorporates figurative imagery to convey abstract concepts. For example, the poet uses metaphors and similes to compare Beowulf to various animals and natural phenomena. These comparisons serve to highlight Beowulf's strength and bravery, as well as his connection to the natural world.

Overall, the use of imagery in Beowulf enhances the reader's experience of the poem by creating a vivid and immersive world. The visual, auditory, tactile, and figurative images used by the poet help to bring the story to life and engage the reader's senses. By appealing to the reader's imagination and emotions, imagery in Beowulf adds depth and complexity to the poem, making it a truly memorable and impactful work of literature.

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Analysis of the Poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Percy Bysshe Shelley's "Ozymandias" is a sonnet that explores the themes of time, power, and the transience of human achievements. Set against the backdrop of a vast desert landscape, the poem tells the story of a traveler who encounters the ruins of a colossal statue in the sand. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Shelley paints a haunting portrait of a once-mighty ruler whose legacy has been reduced to nothing but a crumbling monument. The central theme of "Ozymandias" is the inevitable decline of human empires and the fleeting nature of power. The shattered statue of Ozymandias, a fictionalized representation of the Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II, serves as a potent symbol of the impermanence of worldly glory. Despite Ozymandias' boastful inscription declaring his greatness, the passage of time has rendered his empire and his achievements insignificant. The poem's portrayal of the fallen statue conveys a sense of irony and hubris, reminding the reader that even the most powerful rulers are ultimately subject to the ravages of time. Shelley employs several literary devices to convey the poem's themes effectively. The use of irony, for example, is evident in the contrast between Ozymandias' proud declaration of his greatness and the reality of his crumbling statue. The juxtaposition of the grandiose language of the inscription—"Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!"—with the desolate landscape surrounding the ruins serves to underscore the futility of human ambition in the face of nature's indifference. Furthermore, Shelley's use of imagery creates a vivid sense of place and atmosphere within the poem. The "boundless and bare" desert setting evokes a sense of vastness and desolation, emphasizing the insignificance of human endeavors in the grand scheme of the natural world. The image of the "colossal wreck" of the statue lying "half sunk" in the sand conveys a sense of decay and abandonment, highlighting the inevitable fate of all earthly monuments to power and glory. In conclusion, Percy Bysshe Shelley's "Ozymandias" is a powerful meditation on the themes of time, power, and the transient nature of human achievements. Through its vivid imagery, evocative language, and poignant irony, the poem offers a poignant reminder of the impermanence of earthly glory and the ultimate futility of human ambition in the face of the relentless march of time....

Summary Of ' The House Of The Rising Sun Brothel '

Summary Of The House Of The Rising "The House of the Rising Sun" is a traditional folk song that has been popularized and recorded by various artists over the years. The song's origins are uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th or early 20th century. It tells the story of a life gone astray due to gambling and other vices, leading the narrator to lament their fate in a house of ill repute known as the "House of the Rising Sun." The song's lyrics depict a narrative of regret and redemption, as the narrator reflects on their troubled past and the consequences of their actions. The "House of the Rising Sun" symbolizes a place of temptation and moral decay, where the narrator's downfall began. Despite the somber tone of the song, there is a sense of introspection and reflection, as the narrator grapples with the consequences of their choices. One of the most notable versions of "The House of the Rising Sun" was recorded by the British rock band The Animals in 1964. Their rendition became a chart-topping hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying the song's place in popular culture. The Animals' haunting arrangement, featuring Eric Burdon's soulful vocals and Alan Price's iconic organ riff, captured the melancholy essence of the song and introduced it to a new generation of listeners. Over the years, "The House of the Rising Sun" has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including folk, blues, and rock. Each interpretation brings its own unique style and interpretation to the song, yet the underlying themes of regret, redemption, and the allure of temptation remain constant. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages. In conclusion, "The House of the Rising Sun" is a classic folk song that has captivated listeners for generations with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. Through its portrayal of a life gone astray and the search for redemption, the song continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a timeless piece of musical storytelling....

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Beowulf — The Fight of Good Vs Bad as Depicted in the Beowulf Poem

The Fight of Good Vs Bad as Depicted in The Beowulf Poem

• Categories: Beowulf

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Published: Feb 12, 2019

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