We continue with the Beowulf story as a lesson in diligence and resiliance. The main theme of this particular essay is about the environment of gathering in the best context of the continuance of Tradition. We will not delve into the warrior action adventure aspects too much. These qualities are in the story, as are other topics of study that instruct us about our cultural heritage.
The gathering at Heorot is an expression of integral social culture and values. Prosperity and reward are aspects of the Beowulf narrative. Sharing of wealth is based upon effort and merit. King Hrothgar keeps his Traditional honor by being generous to the deserving. Keeping the social meaning of a tribal endeavor requires the energy of wealth. Again it would be good to consider that the first rune of the Elder Futhark is about mobile wealth. The Old English Rune Poem states a comforting quality and a comprehensive quality of purpose and also an ethic of sharing and keeping the energy in circulation. Currency has value.
I would like to acknowledge again that we are using the Seamus Heaney translation. King Hrothgar says, "So now, Beowulf, I adopt you in my heart as a dear son. Nourish and maintain this new connection, you noblest of men; ther'll be nothing you'll want for, no worldly goods that won't be yours" (pg 63) While Hrothgar assures his worldly consideration of reward, he also affirms a metaphysical enrichment for Beowulf's future. "May the God of Ages continue to keep and requite you well." (pg.63) The reference to the help of God appears often.
Prosperity and reward are ideal themes of the Beowulf epic. The community of humanity in a kindred tribal context is important. The speech and commentary of Hrothgar gives evidence that the religious richness of the community should be considered. Hrothgar says, "First and foremost, let the Almighty Father be thanked for this sight." (pg.63) "Al-Wealden thanc" (Old English pg.62) For a study in the various wordings used for Deity, compare 'Al-Wealden' as 'All Mighty Father' with the phrase 'Al-Walda thec gode forgylde' as 'God of Ages' as it appears later.
Translation and intuitive recognition in similarity of wording becomes evident when looking at the text. Let's look at a study of the phrase "With the Lord's assistance" on page 63. If we look at the wording here and compare it with some of the above phrases for Deity, we can see how leadership of a human society coincides with divine attributes. The wording is, "Drihtnes miht" (pg.62). Some intuition and imagination shows that this phrase in a little more modern English means "Drighten's might". This can give us some insight into what is meant by "Drihtne" in the first poem of the Old English Rune Poem. The usual translation of "If he would gain favor before the Lord" has a more specific meaning with the understanding that 'Drihtne' refers to Tribal leadership. Ange-Seax is a language rich in describing specific and varied aspects of religion, culture, and Tradition. Remembering the linguistic structure of our past is valuable.
