Christian Influence In Beowulf

Crafted in mystery, Beowulf tells the tale of an epic Geat hero named Beowulf who’s exploits range from slaying the beastly demon, Grendel, and his mother to killing a vengeful dragon. Ingrained in the epic Beowulf is a conflict of freewill versus fate, which casts light on a larger geopolitical shift within Scandinavia as Christianity’s expansion into Northern Europe increasingly comes into conflict with local paganism and the warrior culture as a whole. Throughout his storied life, Beowulf believes that his fate is set but also believes God is the ultimate architect of his inescapable end. The hero references many times that he sought God’s approval and favor during his many trials, alluding back to the prevalent Christian influences. Beowulf prepares for Grendel’s strike on Heorot Hall by putting his faith “in his strength of limb and the Lord’s favor” (669-670). Beowulf also sees God as being the ultimate commander of the fates of men when he states, “‘…If God had not helped me, the outcome would have been quick and fatal’” (1657-1658). To Beowulf, God takes an active role in not only granting one glory but planning their demise, …show more content…
Hrothgar, king of the Danes, praises Beowulf after he slays Grendel and uses speech about the Lord to compliment his eloquence when he says, “‘but now a man, with the LORD’s assistance, has accomplished something none of us could manage before now for all our efforts.’” (938-941) But then the noble warrior Wiglaf reflects on Beowulf’s demise, rejecting God’s divine plan when he says, “‘…it was too cruel a fare that forced the king to that encounter.’” (3085-3086) These instances show that though Christianity may be a common within culture, roots of paganism remain in these warriors’ thoughts on life and