Like many other epic poems, Beowulf was designed to be recited orally. To alleviate the difficulties of such a strenuous undertaking, the speeches delivered throughout the epic are sparse and establish an implicit aura of importance within the composition. These gaps in the narrative serve a number of effective literary functions, from displaying the nature of central characters to indicating narrative transition. However, speech within the poem also serves as a method of showing power, so those who are granted speaking passages tend to have greater importance. Viewing Beowulf's speech with this sentiment in mind highlights the hierarchy of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom as well as the implications of social expectations. In this regard, the speech acts in the poem describe a glimpse of the patriarchal gender dynamic present in this historical moment. The vast majority of women in the poem fill minor roles and are silent or left nameless, with the exception of Wealhtheow. Although her presence is brief, the queen's voice emerges as an integral element in understanding the importance and capabilities of women within the Anglo-Saxon aristocracy. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Anglo-Saxon culture was full of stories of nobility and valiant heroism, and the story of Beowulf is no exception. Reflecting on the spread of speaking passages in the epic, the text is dominated by androcentrism; emphasizing a social hierarchy built on glory, loyalty to the crown, and physical prowess among other male achievements. The culture's romanticization of masculinity and honor is especially evident following Aeschere's death, with Beowulf proclaiming “The days on earth for each of us / are numbered; he who could acquire fame before his death; this is the best memory of a warrior when he left this world.” However, despite the conflation of masculinity and status in the culture, a close examination of Wealhtheow demonstrates that women were not simply docile instruments at the command of their kings. Due to the historical context, female agency was not absent, but simply limited to the confines of patriarchy. After Beowulf's defeat of Grendel, a joyous celebration takes place in Heorot. Emerging from the clamor of the mead hall, Wealhtheow's entrance exudes an imposing aura as he takes his seat: The hall echoed with joy, Waves of noise erupted along the benches; the cupbearers brought the wine in glorious vessels. In the midst of the heat of victory, Hrothgar extends a familial kinship with Beowulf, despite his own sons being direct successors to the throne. The way Wealhtheow addresses Hrothgar shows his majesty as well as implications of greater political importance. Her role as ritual cupbearer not only reinforces her primacy as queen, but also grants her a platform to speak on. In his request to Hrothgar, he urges him to be generous to Beowulf and his men, but to be careful about introducing him into the Danish lineage. Instead, he advocates for his nephew Hrothulf to succeed him, ultimately ensuring the continuation of his family and reminding Hrothgar of the obligation he has to his kin. Although Beowulf possesses physical prowess and honor in monumental proportions, Wealhtheow is evidently troubled by the carelessness of her husband's decision to wipe out his lineage. By securing her family's legacy, Wealhtheow subverts the notion of female powerlessness through a display of political authority. Her refutation of Hrothgar's wishes clarifies the queen's method.