Helmet and its special place in the anglo-saxon poem "Beowulf"

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Abstract

This study is devoted to a comprehensive linguocultural analysis of the polysemy of the Old English lexeme helm in the heroic epic "Beowulf". The aim of the work is to determine all identified cases of the root’s usage and to analyze their functions in the poetic discourse. The lexeme helm operates as a central element in a complex semantic system that reflects the hierarchy of patronage in Anglo-Saxon culture. Both purely utilitarian uses and those within historical-cultural contexts are considered. The research differentiates true kennings (metaphors) from descriptive compounds (metonymies), and also examines the syntactic stability of the helm Scyldinga formula as an institutional title. The lexicon of helm serves as a structural instrument to express the main idea that all earthly forms of protection are temporary and powerless in comparison to eternal, divine patronage. The methodology focuses on morphological variants, syntactic surroundings, and direct collocative relationships, employing the principles of Old English morphology for precise identification of case forms. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the author’s complex linguocultural approach to analyzing the polysemy of the Old English lexeme helm in the poem "Beowulf". A philological distinction is made between true kennings and descriptive compounds. This distinction allows for precise identification of when the poet uses helm to denote a sacred or political status and when it is simply used to describe equipment. The syntactic stability of the helm Scyldinga formula (Nom. Sing.) is defined, proving its function as a fixed institutional title. A direct correlation is established between linguistic descriptions of elite equipment (grímhelmas, mask-helmets) and archaeological finds (for example, the Sutton Hoo helmet), which verifies the high social and military status of the wearers of such equipment in Anglo-Saxon culture, comparing it with variations in the poem.

References

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