Considering Beowulf as a Religious Epic
Considering Beowulf as a Religious Epic
Beowulf displays both pagan/Germanic/Norse and Christian elements, which classifies it as either sort of epic. This is because it was written and translated during an era where society was converting from paganism to Christianity. Different lands, characters, and themes are based on either the pagan folklore or Christianity. This can easily explain how the epic could have at one time been pagan/Germanic/Norse and through the years been converted to being also considered Christian.
There are many theories explaining how Beowulf became a Christian epic as well as a pagan one. Beowulf is set in the seventh or eighth century, and Christianity wasn’t introduced to Sweden until four centuries later. One theory is that of Robert P. Creed. He declares that it was a Christian singer who told the story of Beowulf, making it a Christian epic. This proves that the characters and motives could not possibly be Christian based. Beowulf did not truly become a Christian epic until interpreted centuries later by Burton Raffel, whom added the Christianity aspects. This is notably referred to as “Christian coloring.”
The main character in this epic is the courageous, superhuman Beowulf. Our hero saves the day repeatedly and practices Christian ethics while speaking of the blessings from God. Beowulf’s reason for coming to the Dane’s rescue fighting Grendel was solely the will of God. He also decides to fight the monster single handedly, exclaiming, “Let God in His wisdom extend His hand where He wills, reward whom He chooses!” (E.10, Pg. 44) Following his battle with Grendel is the underwater encounter with Grendel’s mother, whom seeks revenge. A giant sword appears on the wall of the cave, blessed by God, and Beowulf uses it to kill the evil monster. Even though Beowulf constantly refers to his devotion to God, one must question his faith when he contradicts Christianity with his arrogance and belief in fate.
Many characters from the epic still demonstrate pagan characteristics though, including the monsters and Danes. The monsters have snakelike qualities, the absolute symbolism of the devil. Grendel’s mother and wave roamers live in the boiling bloody lake, the setting of hell. The Danes turn to the devil and worship stone idols, when in search of help against Grendel. Other subject matters such as fate,...