Beowulf - Paganism and VirtueThe Anglo-Saxons living in Beowulf's time did not believe in the afterlife. For them, the only way to experience life after death was to live in the memories of others. One could achieve this goal by being known for their generosity, courage and strength. Beowulf, the protagonist of this epic poem, embodied all of these virtues and endures in memory for this reason. First, generosity was widespread and more appreciated in Beowulf's time than it is today. This was not simply a virtue, but rather a necessity. Many kings have been measured by the extent of their generosity. For him in the hall, then, Healfdane's song hath twelve, and the earl's trust gave him the gifts to his beloved people, go home, and return with all haste. .It is Hrothgar's (Healfdane's son) way of being generous and thanking Beowulf for killing Grendel and his mother. This gift increased not only Beowulf's fame and wealth, but also Hrothgar's greatness. If Hrothgar had not shown his gratitude for Beowulf's great deeds, he would have been scorned. He might instead be remembered for his lack of charity, which would be tantamount to going to hell for the early Anglo-Saxons. Everyone wanted to be remembered, but only for admirable things. Remembering a shameful life would be far worse than dying. Yes, death is better for Ligean men than a life of shame! Then, courage and strength were also highly valued in these pre-medieval times. In our time, courage is often seen as foolish or ostentatious, whereas in Beowulf's time it was seen as admirable and laudable. It is now, men say, in need of his sovran that the count has made known his noble stock, his talent, his enthusiasm and his enduring courage. … Heedless of harm, although his hand was burned, he courageously helped his kinsman. A little further down, the loathsome beast that he struck with the sword; its steel darkened shiny and burnished; this fire began to die down and die down... So they had killed him, both parents, both: so should an earl be in danger by day! - Among the acts of bravery, this conquering hour of the king was the last of his work in the world. Slaying the great dragon was not only Beowulf's last act of courage, but also Wiglaf's first. Beowulf eventually died from an injury sustained in this battle and had a tower built in his memory..