The Functions of Digressions in Beowulf
The Functions of Digressions in Beowulf

Summary/Abstract: The article aims at establishing the reasons why digressions constitute an integral partof Beowulf. It shows the wide variety of ways how these stylistic devices are related to themain plot of the poem and the latest approach towards the task of analysis. Moreover, theauthor rejects the misguided notion of digressions being nothing more than just “tastelessintrusions”. Even though the purpose of some digressions may not seem perfectly straightforward,all of them contribute to the artistry of the poem. Therefore, Beowulf has to be analysedin terms of a work of art and should not be regarded as valuable for merely historicalsignificance.

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