The Functions of Digressions in Beowulf

The article aims at establishing the reasons why digressions constitute an integral part of Beowulf. It shows the wide variety of ways how these stylistic devices are related to the main plot of the poem and the latest approach towards the task of analysis. Moreover, the author rejects the misguided notion of digressions being nothing more than just “tasteless intrusions”. 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 analysed in terms of a work of art and should not be regarded as valuable for merely historical significance.