The
Anglo-Saxon poem is not only a great story of valor and honor but a
reflection of the customs and traditions of the day. Of course we know that one of the practices
was the honoring of thanes with gold rings and other gifts of gold given by the king. This
giving was used as a reward but was also a practice in keeping with the idea that these men were
constantly at the ready to give up their lives in feats of valor.
Because
the Anglo-Saxons believed that their lives were in the hands of Fate
(Wyrd), they were fierce warriors who pledged their loyalties to their
king. In turn, the king wisely inspires his men with gold, an act which both expresses his
gratitude and ensures the continued loyalty of his warrior-friends.
In the
beginning of the story, then, we see a traditional use of gold. It is an item of value which is
used as a reward, as a gift, and as a symbol of honor. In fact, in one of the opening
descriptions in the poem we read about Shield Sheafson, the beloved Danish...
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