Role Of Women In Beowulf

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Dennis Fernandez MAJ Marsden ENG041-03 September 7, 2011 Women’s Purpose For many centuries women have been considered inferior to men. Their roles are set since the day they are born. In the epic of Beowulf, there are many roles that are established among the women. The roles consist of being hostesses, the peace weavers, and most importantly, the role of the Queen. In contradiction to the good roles, there is the role of evildoer, Grendel’s mother. Many of these roles are set and put forth by women in the Old English times so that this tradition stays in continuance. Throughout the epic of Beowulf, Queen Wealhtheow, wife of Hrothgar, has most definitely filled all the roles of these women. Wealhtheow being queen is by far one of her greatest roles “adorned in her gold”(l. 614). Her appearance and the way the author boasts about her make her noticeably royal material “decked out in rings”(l. 621). Many have found it questionable if Wealtheow is just an ornament, meaning this appearance of hers is more than her role of being a queen, mother, or wife. Another role that is presented in the Old English times is the role of being a hostess. When the men come into the mead-hall for the feast, Wealhtheow shows great respect among them. This consists of her saluting and providing drinks to all of the warriors. It is not only the queen that provides the hospitality but also Freawaru and Hygd. Although Hygd is from another tribe the Heathobards, she still has the same role as any other female. These ladies have also performed in this role of hostess and will continue to teach others the same responsibilities. In addition, woman functions domestically within the nation as a cup-passer during hall festivities of peace and joy after battle or contest. The mead-sharing ritual and the cup-passer herself come to symbolize peace-weaving and peace because they strengthen
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