Symbolism In Beowulf

Quarter Paper The book Beowulf is known as one of the world’s oldest English stories, so throughout the centuries, the story has been interpreted differently. Because of these interpretations, some of the most important factors may be shadowed, if it is being read lightly. If this book is really pondered, the real meaning and symbols may be more noticeable. Beowulf is a representation of Christ, it can be assumed because the writers were Monks. Beowulf is Christ-like in this story because both Beowulf and Jesus were selfless, humble and courageous. Beowulf did not care what he had for himself, he always put others first. For example on page 79, Beowulf gave the coast guard his sword, because Beowulf saw his good deeds and appreciated …show more content…
He didn`t think of himself as the wisest, most capable to kill Grendel. He was below average size and had a disproportionate body. Nobody would look at him and think that he would be a monster killer, but he was. Nobody would look at Jesus and think he was the savior either. The Bible says in Isaiah 53:2, “He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.” Jesus did not look like a savior and did not act like they thought a savior should act. People still did not believe him even after seeing all of his miracles. Jesus was also humble. Jesus was born in an animal stable and was laid in a food trough for animals. He was the savior of the world, but wasn`t born like it. Humble people often get overlooked, but then may get noticed because of their character. There is one more adjective that describes both Jesus and Beowulf and that is …show more content…
When the Fire Drake attacked the town, Beowulf did not give up even when people doubted him. It was a temptation to leave the battle to someone else, but Beowulf had the courage to find the Fire Drake anyway. In the end, Beowulf defeated the monster and defied their expectations of the old man. He defeated the creature in the wisest, most unexpected way, leaving everyone who knew of it shocked. Jesus did many courageous things too, but a noticeable act of courage was when, in Luke 2:41-47, when Jesus was twelve, he told the pastors and priests what was true, which was contrary to their beliefs. It was very brave for a twelve year old boy to be telling a priest he was wrong and teaching him the right things. Both Beowulf and Jesus had many more examples of courage, but these stuck out the