Examples Of Pagan Ideals In Beowulf

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Beowulf: Christian vs. Pagan Ideals Beowulf is a presumably controversial poem. Given that it is the most dated manuscript of literature in the entire world, many people have their own thoughts about how, when and why it was written. Tidmarsh Major makes the point that we cannot look at the Christianity of the poem through the eyes of our current Christianity, but rather of the specific type of Christianity of the Anglo-Saxon period (Major 2). However, there are many beliefs about this epic within the many years it has been in existence. Major believes that the Christian ideas are so essential to the poem that they could not have been added through interpretation of the writer himself (3). Charles Moorman believed the original poem contained …show more content…

Grendel is seen as a descendent of Cain, meaning he is forever shunned from God’s guidance and well-being. “This unhappy being/had long lived in the land of monsters/since the Creator cast them out/as kindred of Cain. For that killing of Abel/the eternal Lord took vengeance”(39.103-107). The Christian elements in this quote are obvious because they relate to a Biblical story in Genesis, but the pagan aspect is seen when one looks at the reason it was said. This reference is made about Grendel before Beowulf fought him because Grendel is seen throughout as a monster. This is used to show the severity of mind after Grendel killed thirty men every twelve years. The people are angry and see Grendel as a tremendous monster that wants to destroy their race. Beowulf also speaks to Hrothgar about his family lineage and what he has come to do. He explains to Hrothgar that he has come to save the people with is fourteen men. Hrothgar is thankful to Beowulf but warns him of the danger before him. “He who is chosen/shall deliver himself to the Lord’s judgment”(47.440-441). Beowulf said this in reference to him fighting with Grendel bare handed. Grendel is the chosen one as he loses his arm in the battle with Beowulf after this prediction is made. Lastly, God’s judgment is shown as God’s brand on Grendel. “Down off the moorlands’ misting fells came/Grendel stalking; God’s brand was on him”(53.710-7110. Grendel was plotting his vengeance of Beowulf while watching them in the hall. God’s judgment was predominately on Grendel in every example as he was the one seen as a monster by the

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