The monster is described as a fiend from hell, “malignant by nature,” and “never showing remorse” (137). There are also traces of the poem’s pagan ancestry in its description of Grendel’s descendants who, although they are simply supposed to be descended from Cain, are described as, “ . Through the eyes of many reading this poem, they would have guessed Beowulf to be more of a pagan; but, there are many more examples of Christianity than paganism. Pssst… Higlac. Beowulf … GradesFixer.com uses cookies. The poem Beowulf marks a period of change in the history of England, namely, the introduction of Christianity amongst the Anglo-Saxons, which led to a newfound interest in literacy. Having trouble finding the perfect essay? Beowulf is in fact an Anglo-Saxon pagan poem transformed into a pseudo-Christian poem by a Christian author. When offerings are made to idols, it is requested that one of the old pagan gods save them from the terror of Grendel, and the carved images of boars on the warriors’ helmets act as good luck charms, a seemingly unchristian, idolatrous practice. He shows no fidelity to kin or lord, he murders and devours Hrothgar’s warriors. fatherless creatures . Most scholars believe that Beowulf was written by a Christian author, who was most likely a monk, which explains the poem’s attempts to instill Christian morality in the reader. Christian symbolism in Beowulf within the poem Beowulf, the poet utilizes the Christian religion to symbolize the elements of good and evil and Heaven and Hell. 2021 © gradesfixer.com. Get an expert to write you the one you need! The religion of the characters isn’t one of steadfastness, but seems to be one imposed on them by force. Hrothgar is speaking to Beowulf after the hero has killed not only Grendel but also Grendel’s mother, thus saving Hrothgar’s kingdom twice. Right before the hall being built by Hrothgar was even mentioned there is another example of the Heroic Code’s influence, with the poem saying, “The fortunes of war favored Hrothgar. In the author’s attempt to Christianize Beowulf, there are undoubtedly some remains of the pagan ideology from which the poem emerged. Then, instead of speaking more about the sweet afterlife Beowulf will have, the poet focuses on Beowulf and the dragon lying side by side, painting a rather paganistic picture of Beowulf’s death (Irving 88). Throughout the Middle Ages, the idea of Christianity has been portrayed in many literary instances. Examples Of Christianity In Beowulf Being Cain’s scion, he is unable to find a shelter in society. The Christian author of Beowulf had attempted to appeal to his Christian audience not only through the reconciliation of pagan concepts with Christianity, but also through his representation of kingship. Everything happens in Beowulf can be credited to the grace of God, whether it is victory in battle, or the taking of booty after a victory. Beowulf is somehow able to open the treasure with no effect at all, since he is protected by God (Irving 87). . While looking onto the afterlife his Christian God will provide, Beowulf thinks about the killing of his kinsmen, a Germanic sin that he begins to believe could prevent him from entering heaven (Irving 113). Perhaps more interesting than the history of Christianity and its effect on Beowulf are the numerous biblical symbols and references in the text. GradesFixer. Their pagan traditions are reflected in this narrative and the work is peppered with references to both Christianity and paganism. You can order Unique paper and our professionals Rewrite it for you. This essay has been submitted by a student. This leads us to some of the Christian contradictions that appear in Beowulf. The nature of Christianity in Beowulf - Volume 13 - Edward B. Irving. was granted the glory of winning” (817-18). Religion is a touchy issue in Beowulf, because the story is told in late medieval Anglo-Saxon Britain, which has been Christianized, but it's about early medieval Scandinavia, which is pagan. Beowulf’s boasts and encounters reveal him to be the strongest, ablest warrior around. Beowulf. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/christianity-in-beowulf/, Recieve 100% plagiarism-Free paper just for 4.99$ on email, *Public papers are open and may contain not unique content. Start studying Beowulf's Pagan and Christian Elements. . For example, after Beowulf and his men finished their journey to Denmark they, “thanked God for that easy crossing on a calm sea” (227-28); and before his battle with Grendel, he says, “Whichever one death fells must deem it a just judgement by God” (440-41). Because of its complicated origin, Beowulf has elements of both pagan Germanic culture and Christianity. Figures such as Onela and Offa are mentioned in passing, related to the topic at hand. While many pagan influences appear in the poem, Christian overtones dominate. The protagonist of the epic, Beowulf is a Geatish hero who fights the monster Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a fire-breathing dragon. For example when Beowulf relates his hard fought and long vital battle with Grendels Mother, he states that the fight would have ended straight away if God had not […] According to Beowful critic William Lawerence, “the poorest and weakest parts of the poem are to be found among the definitely Christian passages. Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Beowulf — The Poem Beowulf and the Introduction of Christianity amongst the Anglo-Saxons. Beowulf, the epic poem, presents Christian elements. Most scholars believe that Beowulf was written by a Christian author, who was most likely a monk, which explains the poem’s attempts to instill Christian morality in the reader. 2018 Jun 08 [cited 2021 Mar 11]. Beowulf is the oldest known English epic poem. This is not an example of the work written by professional essay writers. An example of how God protects Beowulf occurs when he opens a treasure upon which the ancients had placed a spell. Although Hrothgar says that it "bothers him" to have someone else kill Grendel, he knows that Beowulf has his father's debt to pay. Many of the characters exhibit Christian characteristics. Like Christ, Beowulf is looked at as a nobleman, who is God-like and above other human beings. Nature in this sense takes on a new meaning. These battles are examples of epic folklore during pagan times. There is also a subtle reference to the resurrection of Jesus and God, the Father in the description when: “Hrothgar, watching the lake water, saw a heave-up and surge of waves and blood in the backwash. (Click the themes infographic to download.). The young king of the Geats; married to Higd; Beowulf's uncle and lord; youngest son of Hrethel; father of Herdred; father-in … After Grendel’s defeat Beowulf claims that he, “ . In the seventh century, Irish monks from the north were active in propagating Christianity, aided by the mission of Augustine, which during the same time extended its headquarters in the south to the Anglian kingdoms in the north. this essay is not unique. Here is untried material, and a childlike attitude toward a new faith” (Lawrence 9). Read Christianity In "Beowulf" - An Analysis Of The Theme Of Christianity In The Epic Research Papers and other exceptional papers on every subject and topic college can throw at you. The purpose of this paper is to show the significance of Beowulf to understands both the Christian and pagan humanity. And what makes Beowulf such a pagan story? . Students who find writing to be a difficult task. Grendel is portrayed as a “monster of Cain” and lives underground. Beowulf is seen as a God to the Geat people, and they turn to the Almighty to save them from evil. Early Christian writers such as St. Augustine were key in turning people away from pagan attitudes, including earthly arrogance and desire for wealth. Readers of Beowulf are now in apparent agreement that the frequent Christian references in the poem fit easily and naturally into their contexts and give every sign of being simply an unconscious part of the normal language and thought of the poet. The descriptions of Grendel clearly cause the reader to identify him with darkness and evil, and thus as an opponent of God. In his youth, he personifies all of the best values of the heroic culture. To ensure the best experience, please update your browser. If you’d like this or any other sample, we’ll happily email it to you. Attention! With other christian stories from Christian cultures for, example Beowulf , the effect that christianity itself has on this poem is too evident to say completely that Beowulf characteristic is Pagan. Before Christianity reached its peak in the medieval period, traits such as heroism and arrogance were to be admired, just as long as they did not strive too close to the gods and the heavens. Take for example this passage describing Beowulf’s sword: You can order professional work according to specific instructions and 100% plagiarism free. The story of Beowulf probably originated as an oral tradition sometime in the 7th century. Hrothgar has already lavished praise and treasure on the hero and claimed him as a son. The story of Christ is weaved into Beowulf symbolically, with details and the storyline from Christ’s life going into the story of Beowulf. their whole ancestry is hidden in a past of ghosts and demons” (1355-57). By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. Indeed there are many Christian elements to this poem, but when contrasted with the reality of the pagan times in which Beowulf is set, it becomes unrealistic to believe they could coexist, and it seems that the author may have been forced to include certain traditions and practices that might not have existed in an original version of the poem. These Irish missionaries did more than just spread religion. 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The Role of Religion in the Message and Structure of Beowulf and Grendel Matt Leone, Saahil Jain, Jesse Wood, Andrew Johnson, and Faraaz Sultan The Structure & Message The Fusion of Christianity & Paganism The ultimate nature of the poem's message, in respect to religious belief They created famous schools, where many of their converts were educated. christian elements in beowulf Essay Examples Top Tag’s argumentative essay the law of life capital punishment freedom of speech heaven and hell high school vs college allegory of the cave beowulf racism night friend argument leader what is leadership photo Yet another example of how paganism and Christianity intermix in the poem occurs during Beowulf’s death. . Essentially, Beowulf emboldens the other characters with a reminder of a traditional value: that legacy is the only reward that a good soldier may hope to achieve. Beowulf as a Christ-like Figure. Are you interested in getting a customized paper? He's later described as ''the youthful hero.''. Beowulf’s action and characterizations in the pagan view has become a major role in the Christian view as well. This act of loyalty made him a hero. Grendel, “bears both the mark of Cain and the wrath of God.” He is often times referred to as a refugee banished into the wilderness for the murder of this brother, as Anglo-Saxon outlaws of that time were (Irving 47-48). The significance of the Cain story is underlined by Grendel’s behavior, which is absolutely unacceptable. Oh no! The only thing naïve about the poem is its theology. Pagans believe in supernatural monsters and magical heroes. The author of Beowulf is suggesting that the sword’s creators were the descendants of those that caused God to bring on the flood, and perhaps even suggesting that they were descendants of Cain. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools. Throughout the story of Beowulf, one finds many elements of Christian philosophy: that man survives only through the protection of God, that all earthly gifts flow from God, and that the proper bearing of man is to be humble and unselfish. Through studying this narrative poem, one finds examples of this dominant religion. . Remember: This is just a sample from a fellow student. Pagans believe in magic and many of them practice magic. They also believe in the existence of gods and goddesses that affect our daily lives. The blood that Hrothgar sees rising to the top is similar to that of Jesus’, and when Beowulf is found to be alive, it is symbolic of the Christian resurrection. But the only surviving manuscript of Beowulf was written in the 11th century by Christian scribes, who either inserted the Christian overtones to the story, or were working from a manuscript set down by previous Christians who added the Christian … christianity in beowulf Essay Examples Top Tag’s autobiography i believe childhood obesity abortions nature vs. nurture scarlet letter college teenage pregnancy obesity in america causes of the civil war to kill a mockingbird career goals slavery what is leadership pro choice The author presents a sense of Christianity through Biblical allusions, moral themes, and evil representations. . Now Hrothgar offers praise to God as well. Another one of Anglo-Saxon beliefs that is described in Beowulf , is the characteristic of Paganism. Although many of the concepts in Beowulf reflect attitudes of pagan Anglo-Saxon times, still contains many newly introduced Christian themes; themes that occasionally clash with older values (Irving 21). In addition to Beowulf’s recognition of God in everything he does, he also seems to have a mystical protection that guards all of his actions. Although Christianity has an effect on Beowulf, it is known still to be pagan as well. Although some aspects of pagan attitudes still lurk within Beowulf, its Christian values are clear. However, there is also a strong sense of heroic pride within Beowulf which is at times in direct conflict with these Christian values. They suffered a terrible severance from the Lord; the Almighty made the waters rise, drowned them in the deluge for retribution (1687-93). We can custom-write anything as well! All rights reserved Gradesfixer ™, “The Poem Beowulf and the Introduction of Christianity amongst the Anglo-Saxons.”, The Poem Beowulf and the Introduction of Christianity amongst the Anglo-Saxons [Internet]. In his words and actions, Beowulf embodies both Christian and Anglo-Saxon ideals; however, they reveal him to be more of a Christian than a pagan. We can custom edit this essay into an original, 100% plagiarism free essay. Beowulf has a Christ-like behavior in his good-heartedness and charity. Beowulf has a lot of comparisons to Christianity, especially in the context of Christ. Assessment of the Role of Quest in Beowulf Essay, Brain Power Vs. Said to be the son of God, Jesus is referred to as Christ and preformed miracles recorded in Gospels. They bowed gray heads, spoke in their sage, experienced way about the good warrior, how they never again expected to see that prince returning in triumph to their king” (1592-58). The story of Beowulf does have many ideals and morals from the bible, and Beowulf represents most of these ideals. Although there are many examples of Pagan beliefs in the poem Beowulf, the poem points more toward a Christian influence and meaning. Ironically enough, earlier in the passage the giants were referred to in a positive manner. You can get 100% plagiarism FREE essay in 30sec, Sorry, we cannot unicalize this essay. Everything happens in Beowulf can be credited to the grace of God, whether it is victory in battle, or the taking of booty after a … The manuscripts date back to about 1000 A.D., when two scribes wrote it down for posterity. It looks like your browser needs an update. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy. Beowulf, when he becomes king of the Geats, seems to have similarities to the King Edwin described in Bede's The Conversion of Northumbria.

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