d done in order to receive them. The more good deeds a warrior had done, the more weapons and treasures he possessed. Unferth presents Beowulf with a great sword named Hrunting as Beowulf ventures out in search of Grendels mother:Hrothgars spokesman lent to his need: Hrunting was the name of the hilted sword; it was one of the oldest of ancient treasures; its edge was iron, decorated with poison-stripes, hardened with battle sweat.(1081).Beowulf receives Hrunting in order to slay Grendels mother. Weapons were given to a warrior when he accomplished a great feat. After Beowulf defeats Grendel, Hrothgar showers him with weapons and armor: So generously the famous princerepaid the warriors deeds with horses and treasure that no man will ever find fault with them, (1076). The weapons presented showed the noble standing of the warrior, as were the treasures offered. Beowulf not only receives weapons and armor, but he also receives treasures from Hrothgar for defeating Grendel: Bestowed on him, two arm-ornaments, a mail-shirt and rings, the largest of necklaces of those I have heard spoken of on Earth. (1078). Beowulf fought the dragon for his treasure, as was common amongst warriors: The brave young retainer (Wiglaf), triumphant in heart, many precious jewels, glittering gold lying on the ground, wonders on the wall, and the worms lair (1098). Beowulf gives the reader an insight into what it might have been like to live during the Anglo-Saxon period of history. It also gives the reader an understanding of what characterized the Anglo-Saxon society. The Anglo-Saxons thought women to be virtually valueless, accepted pre-Christian beliefs, and they put a great deal of emphasis on rewards obtained for doing good deeds. These traits are all evident in the epic poem, Beowulf....
