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Beowulf : The Values And Contributions Of Anglo-Saxon Culture

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The Anglo-Saxon culture was initially illustrated as an uncultivated pagan civilization, or in more frank terms, it was described as boorish and unrefined. Similarly, its literature did not evade the harsh criticism the culture faced. In more recent centuries, Anglo-Saxon literature has become revered for its inherent themes centered around close-knit communities and intrepid warriors. Anglo-Saxon works, such as the epic poem Beowulf, are also known for their reflections of the culture’s conversion to Christianity which are blended with the values and customs of the past. In summation, the literature of the Anglo-Saxons is neither static nor barbarian; its sophistication lies in its ability to adapt to cultural changes while remaining deeply rooted in its warrior origins. Emphasizing the impact of the Roman occupation upon Britain would be detrimental, as it overshadows the important cultural contributions of the Germanic groups, such as the Saxons and Angles, that invaded soon after the Romans retreated in 410 AD (Laing). Although the Roman invasion in 55 BC introduced Christianity, architecture, and technology to the British Isles, the Christian religion did not take hold until the end of the sixth century with the efforts of St. Augustine. This occurrence is beneficial for both historians and literary enthusiasts, as writing was a product of Christianity, and documentation was a result of the advocation for writing practices (Laing). During this time, popular

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