As the seminar sessions progress, certain paralells are becoming evident between the Germanic Kings discussed in The 13th Warrior, the Risala of Ibn Fadlan, The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers and Beowulf. Throughout each text the King is seen a Godlike figure who, through his inauguration, underwent a divine transformation akin to apotheosis. Certain practises and rituals are seen to form a patternt throughout the text.
The location within which the King resides is of immense importance. The name of the location will always be linked directly to the King who has ascended to it's throan. This place oftentimes reflects the values, morals and ethical approach of the King as well as the current state of the society over which he resides. In Beowulf, King Hrothgar resides within Heorot, a hall of civility, nobitlity and diplomacy. Amidst the diabolical seige on the hall by the monster Grendel, the hall becomes a desolate place saturated in fear and death, reflecting both the outlook of the King as well as his society. Similiar to this is the kingdom of Rohan in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. As King Theodin lies under a wicked spell and loses his once diligent and noble self, Rohan becomes almost derelict of the traditional traits of a place under which a competent and worthy King rules. His restoration to his former self as a result of the White Wizard breaking the spell also results in a natural restitution of the pride and vibrancy of Rohan.
