고대영어 Laf에 내재된 시인의 의도: 영웅주의와 이름의 형태소 조합을 중심으로 = The Poet`s Intention in the Use of Laf: Focusing on the Relationship between Heroism and Name`s Components

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

The poet of 『Beowulf』, who is keenly aware of the superficial and symbolic meanings of heroic ideals in heroic society, seems to endeavor to convey its significance through subtle combinations of words. His intention is well proven from the very beginning of the poem. Those who led the prosperity of Danish kingdom, the Spear-Danes, Scyld Scefing and Hrothgar have proper names which are constructed from or incorporate the names of different weapon types. This subtle combination shows that the poet intends to make the best use of weapons firstly in the formation of dictions and secondly delivering subject matter such as heroic ideals. The most important concept in heroic society, the binding force of society, was the comitatus, the mutual loyalty between lord and thane or warrior. The leader gave legal and economic protection in return for military service. In this society the highest moral principle is to achieve glory, which is considered as immortality passing this earthly life, works as a substitute for soul after death in Christianity. This is the highest sentiment and aim for the warrior and it is something that must continually be striven for. The poet``s intention to emphasize the heroic code is in particular demonstrated in the use of -laf compounds forming the names of warriors in 『Beowulf』. This is well proven in the name of Wiglaf (battle+remnant) who inherited Beowulf``s exemplary heroic virtues. When the first element ``wig`` meaning ``battle`` is combined with the second element laf meaning ``remnant`` then the whole meaning of Wiglaf will become ``the survivor(keeper) inheriting battle spirit(heroic spirit)`` or ``the last holder of martial spirit.`` This combination of ``battle`` and ``remnant`` in the name of Wiglaf is not coincidental instead it is regarded as the poet``s intention to enhance the importance of heroic ideals such as glory and revenge ethos. The meaning of ``inheritor of heroic spirit``, which is derived from the symbolic interpretation of ``battle+remnant`` fits well for Wiglaf``s code of heroic idealism especially focusing on glory. As Wiglaf reminds Beowulf in many ways, he has done all things well and gained eternal glory, the aim of every warrior, and the necessary afterlife of fame.