Literary Elements

The literary elements of alliteration can be found in the lines of Caedmon’s Hymn and Beowulf. Despite being Anglo-Saxon literature if different genre, they both contains this literary component. The alliteration in the two allows the reader easily remember the text and be able to recite it easily. Some examples are “work of the world-warden” in Caedmon’s Hymn and “he knew the sea would point the prow straight to the distant Danish shore” in Beowulf. Also, the usage of kenning cans be found within the two poems to give them a more exciting and deep impression. Also, in both poems there are numerous names for God that is used instead of simply referring God to God. For example, in Beowulf God is referred to as “Lord of All.” However, in Caedmon’s Hymn, God is referred to as “Lord of Glory.” These components make the poems easier to read. Like typical Anglo-Saxon text the usage of alliteration is used and the sense of loyalty to God can be seen. Even though Beowulf is more of an epic poem where the protagonist deals with heroic deeds, Caedmon’s Hymn also gives off that effect in a different sense. In Caedmon’s Hymn, the message of accepting the wryd after a life journey can be seem like how Beowulf accepted the fact that he will died in defeat after winning so many in his life. Even though there are different aspects, it can clearly be seen that these two texts were similar in terms of when they were composed. They possess significant aspects of Anglo-Saxon literature.