Death and burial in Beowulf

Beowulf is one of the most important literary works of old English literature. It is the longest poem and contains almost three thousand verses or lines. It is the magnum opus of Scandinavian literature. The author of this epic poem is unknown. Beowulf contains all the essential elements and motifs of a Scandinavian society. It takes the reader onto a never-ending historical journey that culminates only with the death of the hero. There are two parts in this paper. The first part contains the annotated bibliography of sources; while the second part covers the analysis of this incredible poem.

Part 1: Annotated Bibliography

Bjork, E. A Beowulf Handbook, Lincoln, University of Nebraska Press, (2007), pp.88-89

The author of this book successfully uses the psychology of aggression and physical violence while highlighting the nature of the war between the good and evil. The author presents a good discussion on how fighting can represent the relationship between characters. His argument is also very interesting in the way that he interprets the actions of Beowulf in a Christian sense. He portrays Beowulf's descent into the mere as a descent into hell. In addition, he criticizes Beowulf for trying to play the role of God by deciding others fates himself and deciding what is justice.

The Death of Beowulf, Retrieved from, http://www.ethesis.net/beowulf/beowulf.htm on July 25, 2011

This website presents a critical insight into this magnificent poem. The author highlights the themes of wars and rituals of the old English tradition. He also criticizes his contemporary scholars for taking this poem non-seriously. He defends the integrity of the poem and thinks that it is the best poem that depicts the traditions of old Scandinavian culture.

Hill, M. The Narrative Pulse of Beowulf, Toronto, University of Toronto Press, (2008), pp.36-37

Hill focuses on the wars of Beowulf. This book presents the historical developments of the poem in an unambiguous language. The book also presents a critical analysis of Christianity themes that form an integral part of the poem.

Joy, A. The Postmodern Beowulf, a Critical Casebook, Morgantown, West Virginia University Press, (2006), pp.58-59

This book presents a comprehensive critical analysis of Beowulf and its applications in the modern world. This book includes a good comparative discussion on themes of social conduct, war, and rituals and practices in old as well as the modern world.

North, R. The Origins of Beowulf, New York, Oxford University Press, (2006), pp.71-72

This is a fascinating read. This book presents the most detailed account of Beowulf right from the beginning till the end. The author discusses the cultural impact of characters in the poem. The author emphasizes that identity is one of core issues and the characters manipulate their identity and memory. The author criticizes the age-old myths associated with this poem.

Pulvel, M. “Cause and Effect in Beowulf”, British Journal of Literature, 158(25), (2005), pp.23-24

This poem has the central theme that deals with the idea of heroism and its causes and effects in the poem Beowulf. The author uses the character of Beowulf to analyze these ...