Mahatma Gandhi, an Indian nationalist, once remarked: “The culture of a nation lies in the hearts and souls of its people” ( brainyquote.com). In literature and poetry, a culture's societal values ​​and principles are commonly illustrated. Readers can understand the cultural beliefs of a society by carefully reading its literary works. The poem Beowulf embodies the societal ideals and attitudes of Anglo-Saxon culture. The medieval epic poem Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney, symbolizes Anglo-Saxon values ​​such as oral storytelling, heroic behavior, and loyalty. Several examples of the value of storytelling are apparent in Beowulf. Storytelling in the mead halls is the main form. news. After Beowulf's victory over Grendel, a minstrel begins to "repeat the triumphs and exploits of Beowulf" in a poetic manner (Heaney 59). Thanks to storytelling, the men and women of Anglo-Saxon society are able to spread stories, which then travel across the country and to the people. The stories told in Beowulf introduce new heroes, such as the main character himself, and their accomplishments, which in turn enter into the story. Comparatively, storytelling is one of the few means of historical and cultural preservation in Anglo-Saxon society. After Grendel's defeat, Beowulf and his troops gather in the mead hall where "the king's poet played his part in the saga of Finn and his sons" (Heaney 71). The poet tells an ancient story of a dispute between the Danes and the Frisians which depicts cultural aspects such as the notion of wyrd, honor and revenge. The story incorporates historical and cultural values ​​propagated through traditional oral recitations. Oral storytelling is an important part of Anglo-Saxon culture. Another very valuable middle of paper......that Beowulf was loyal to his people as they were returned to him. Loyalty was an important characteristic of Anglo-Saxon culture. By reading Beowulf carefully, a scholar can accumulate information about the values ​​that dominated Anglo-Saxon society. The Anglo-Saxons used storytelling to entertain and teach their people. Heroic behaviors such as honor and strength were extremely important in society. Loyalty to the king and to the people was essential to being a worthy individual. Although poetry often conveys beautiful stories, a closer look reveals important facets of a society.ListWorks CitedCurtis, Ian. “What Anglo-Saxon societal values ​​are presented in Beowulf? AIM English.New gym. 4-11-14 Gandhi, Mahatma. 2001-2014 brainyquote.com. April 13, 2014.Heaney, Seamus. Beowulf. New York: WW Norton & Company, 2000. Print.