Psychosexuality in Beowulf

SIZE MATTERS: The Theme of Psychosexuality in Beowulf

Underlying the more popular traditional themes of the great Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf (heroism, religion, good versus evil, etc.) lies another important theme. The theme of psychosexuality is one that is present in some form in any story, and Beowulf, the oldest surviving text in the English language, is no exception. In the poem, psychosexuality is presented in both subtle and quite obvious ways. No matter how the theme the used, however, it is always present in the characters, from their actions to their personalities.

The first hints in Beowulf of the psychosexual theme are of a subtle nature, relating more to masculinity/femininity than to any sort of sex symbols. The theme is presented as such: men are expected to be strong, and to lead, while women are subjugated and treated as property, while still possessing a kind of covert power. The covert power of women is derived from the primary element of psychosexuality, sexuality itself. During the time period in which the poem is based, women were not allowed to own property, being possessions themselves. Women were able to get what they desired by working behind the scenes, more specifically in the bedroom. When the men come back from battle or from a hard day’s work they may very well expect to have some form of “release” from the troubles of the day. Only women could provide the release they sought, and the women are well aware of the fact. Women proceed to use this to their advantage, seeking compensation for the use of their bodies. The wife of Hrothgar, Wealtheow, provides us with a brief glimpse into this idea. Wealtheow, like other women of the time, is considered little more than a possession. Despite this, she plays the important role of Hrothgar’s advisor, along with somewhat of a peacekeeper between clans. Her role of advisor is first shown during a celebratory feast after the defeat of Grendel:

“So, while you may,

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