1. The Elegiac Tone and Focus on Mortality:
* Beowulf: While a heroic epic, Beowulf also expresses the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of glory. Beowulf, despite his extraordinary strength, succumbs to old age and death. This stark reminder of mortality pervades the poem, emphasizing the fleetingness of earthly achievements.
* The Wanderer: This elegy laments the loss of a beloved lord and the transience of earthly joys. The speaker, a displaced warrior, reflects on the impermanence of power and the sorrow of separation, highlighting the fragility of human connections and the inevitability of change.
* The Seafarer: This poem explores the hardships of a sailor's life and the relentless cycle of nature. The speaker reflects on the ever-changing sea and the fragility of life, highlighting the transient nature of the material world.
2. The Importance of Legacy and Fame:
* Beowulf: While acknowledging death, Beowulf strives for fame and legacy. He seeks to leave a lasting impact through his heroic deeds, attempting to overcome the transience of life through acts of valor and the memory they create.
* The Battle of Maldon: This poem celebrates the bravery of the Anglo-Saxons who died fighting against the Vikings. Even in the face of defeat, the warriors find meaning in their sacrifice, knowing their valor will be remembered and their names etched in history.
These examples demonstrate how Anglo-Saxon literature grapples with the transient nature of life and the world. While acknowledging the inevitability of change and loss, these works also highlight the enduring power of human spirit, legacy, and the quest for lasting meaning. They showcase the Anglo-Saxons' understanding of life's impermanence, yet their determination to find meaning and purpose within its fleetingness.