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

Beowulf Pagan or Christian EpicBeowulf Pagan or Christian Epic?Although the story of Beowulf is change with references to religion and faith, m either discrepancies occur end-to-end the story that suggest that Beowulf is non a Christian larger-than-life. The character of Beowulf frequently speaks to idol and obviously believes in His existence. However, infidel practices are menti wizd in several places. Beowulf often refers to another existence rather than the Christian God. Pagan practices of cremation and blood-drinking are included in the epic. in that respect are also frequent eitherusions to the power of fate, the motive of blood revenge, and approval of worldly glory. All of these aspects put one across Beowulf a pagan tale with a few Christian elements. A key pagan reference in Beowulf is the entity Wyrd. Now if Wyrd, Ruler of All, will permit, my stout sword will carol its greedy war-song....Wyrd always weaves as it must. The Christian tradition clear states the existence of only one supreme entity. It also states that anyone worshipping false idols is outlet to punishment. If Beowulf was truly a Christian, he would not call to Wyrd for any eccentric of assistance. One might argue that referring to Wyrd as Ruler of All suggests that this entity is the Christian God. But 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 current 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 there are Christian images throughout the tale, the story is clearly pagan in nature. The Beow ulf poet portrays the culture and people by separating the main ideas like a prism does with light. Although there are the Christian references surface throughout the tale, a tang 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 prove that pagan concepts and principles prevail over the values of Christianity. It is shown on innumerous occasions through the material rewards, earthly fame, false idols, and burial practices. In the end, the separated lights in the prism come together and become one. This align of light in Beowulf is ultimately the strong presence of a pagan hero and a pagan culture.