Beowulf is an epic poem whose author is anonymous, but was translated into many editions by many translators. Comitatus is defined as a bond between a Lord and his warriors that neither will leave the battlefield without the other or avenged their kinsmen if he is killed. Comitatus is seen often through Beowulf where Grendel’s mother seeks revenge for the death of Grendel, where Beowulf goes into battle against the dragon with the aid of Wiglaf, and where the king’s guards sleep in the mead hall. Why is comitatus an essential part of the Germanic culture?
Thesis- Make a strong claim about 3 strong aspects of comitatus and what it adds to the poem Beowulf.
Celebrations, Battles and Funerals all bring the people closer together where at celebrations the Lord gives the warriors gifts, during battles the warriors help protect the kingdom and people, and during funerals the people all mourn together. This is all a form of comitatus.
Beowulf
Quote:
1. Time and again, Beowulf’s warriors worked to defend their lord’s life, laying about them as best as they could with their ancestral blades.
2. And there the warriors stood in their war-gear eager to go, while honoured lord approached the platform where the other sat.
3. Let us go to him help our leader through the hot flame and dread of the fire. 179
So they can protect him and if anyone wanted to harm the king they would have to go through a whole room full of warriors.
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