Beowulf - Pagan or Christian Epic? Essay -- Epic of Beowulf Essays

Beowulf Pagan or Christian subicalBeowulf Pagan or Christian Epic?Although the story of Beowulf is filled with references to godliness and faith, many discrepancies occur throughout the story that suggest that Beowulf is not a Christian epic. The character of Beowulf frequently speaks to God and obviously believes in His innovation. However, ethnic practices ar mentioned in several places. Beowulf often refers to an otherwise being instead than the Christian God. Pagan practices of cremation and blood-drinking ar included in the epic. There are also frequent allusions to the power of fate, the motive of blood revenge, and praise of bored glory. All of these aspects make Beowulf a goy narration with a a few(prenominal) Christian elements. A key pagan reference in Beowulf is the entity Wyrd. at once if Wyrd, Ruler of All, will permit, my stout sword will sing its acquisitive war-song....Wyrd always weaves as it must. The Christian tradition clearly states the ex istence of only one supreme entity. It also states that anyone worshipping false idols is subject to punishment. If Beowulf was genuinely a Christian, he would not call to Wyrd for any type of assistance. single might argue that referring to Wyrd as Ruler of All suggests that this entity is the Christian God. besides God is referred to throughout the epic. For Grendel bore Gods anger...Mighty God rules mortals forever. These are two separate entities that serve different functions throughout the epic. A aline Christian tale would not include any other God or all-powerful being rather than the one true God of the Christian teachings. The story also mentions that Hrothgar and his people make sacrifices to idols in an attempt to overcome the monster Grendel. And so it came to pas... ... wealth. In conclusion, the epic tale of Beowulf is a pagan tale with a pagan hero. Although in that respect are Christian images throughout the tale, the story is clearly pagan in nature. The Beowulf poet portrays the civilization and people by separating the main ideas like a prism does with wake. Although there are the Christian references surface throughout the tale, a look at the epic as a whole clearly shows its true pagan nature. No matter which end of the spectrum you are looking from, all the ideas confirm that pagan concepts and principles prevail over the values of Christianity. It is shown on countless make through the material rewards, earthly fame, false idols, and burial practices. In the end, the detached lights in the prism come together and become one. This array of light in Beowulf is ultimately the strong presence of a pagan hero and a pagan culture.