Final answer:
The cultural values in 'Hektor and Achilleus' and 'Beowulf' primarily revolve around heroism and honor, with 'arete' playing a central role in both. While Homeric heroes like Achilles seek personal glory, Beowulf also values community and loyalty. Differences in cultural depictions may be due to contrasting societal norms and the influence of Christianity in 'Beowulf'.
Step-by-step explanation:
In comparing the cultural values demonstrated in "Hektor and Achilleus" from Homer's Iliad and the Anglo-Saxon epic Beowulf, we observe a prominence of similar ideals of heroism, honor, and societal roles. Both of these works emphasize the importance of arete, its manifestation as physical strength, prowess in battle, and eloquent speech. Beowulf depicts its titular hero as possessing unmatched strength and bravery, much like Achilleus, who is also celebrated for his combat skills. However, whereas Homeric values highlight glory and personal excellence that can be achieved through rhetoric and warfare, Beowulf incorporates the concept of loyalty to one's lord and community, alongside courage and strength.
The characters in these epics live in societies that revolve around war and lineage. For instance, Achilleus' quest for personal glory and immortality in song is contrasted by Beowulf's sense of duty to his people and ultimate sacrifice. Adding to this, Beowulf includes an emphasis on the supernatural, with Beowulf battling against monstrous creatures, thereby portraying the theme of good versus evil differently from the human-centered conflicts in Homer's epics.
These differences in cultural values and character representation may stem from the disparate historical contexts and societal structures from which each epic arose—from the individualistic Greek culture that celebrated personal achievement, to the communal and duty-bound Germanic tribes that Beowulf reflects. Additionally, the influence of Christianity in Beowulf shapes the moral framework of the characters and their destiny, unlike the capricious fate dealt by the gods in Homer's works.