The Battle of Beowulf: Pagan Vs. Christian Influences

The Battle of Beowulf: Pagan vs. Christian Influences

One of the most influential epic poems of all time, and the first in English, is the story of Beowulf and his many heroic endeavors. Beowulf is a unique example of epic poetry, as it represents a blend of pagan and Christian influences and ideologies that is not seen in other works of the era. Although most scholars agree it began a pagan story, likely passed down orally, it is probable that it was transcribed by Christian scholars around the time of the conversion of England to Christianity. While recording the oral tale of Beowulf, many Christian motifs and references were added. This takes a generic epic poem with emphasis on heroics, revenge and fate and infuses it with Christian concepts. This Christian influence is best represented by the idea of God as a provider, the belief in protection through faith in God, and similarities that are drawn between Beowulf and Jesus Christ, as well between Grendel's mother and Satan.

Throughout the poem, there are numerous references to God as a provider. In particular, Beowulf's nigh supernatural strengths are attributed to the grace of God. In fact, most virtuous characters are described as so only through the will of God. For example, when describing Beow, the author introduced him as a "comfort sent by God to that nation" while also stating that "the Lord of Life, the glorious Almighty, made this man renowned"(Norton 42). The message is clear; this ethical, beloved man is considered so not because of his own will or as a result of his actions but rather because God took a special interest in him and his people and made him great in response. There is also a moment in the poem directly preceding Grendel's first attack on Heorot where the Christian creation myth is told, detailing how "the Almighty had made the earth...in His splendor" and "set the sun and the moon to be earth's lamplight, lanterns for men". This is likely told to reinforce the concept that life, beauty and nature are all gifts of god and should be cherished and defended as such. These particular lines also serve as a perfect contrast for the introduction of Grendel in the following lines. They set up the character as a negative force by discussing his defilements and sins side-by-side the ultimate standard for good in the poem--God.

Another recurring Christian motif throughout the poem is the belief in God as a protector. This is seen again and again during the narrative, but is first demonstrated when Grendel devastates Heorot yet leaves the king unharmed. The reasoning behind this is that the king is given his ruling power directly from God and that he is God's envoy in the physical world. That relationship allows for the king to be under direct protection from God, symbolized by his throne. It is also a perfect demonstration of how Christian rulers were viewed during this time period. Beowulf also makes numerous comments about how he was only able to do certain things due to being protected by God. For example, after beginning his battle with Grendel's mother and suffering an attempted stab that was thwarted by his chain-mail, the narrator states: "The son of Ecgtheow would have surely perished and the Geats lost their warrior under the wide earth had the strong links and locks of his war-gear not helped save him: holy God decided the victory" (Norton 75). Directly after this, Beowulf spies a mighty two-handed sword that proves to be the turning point in the battle. He attributes this luck to God by saying "It was easy for the Lord, the Ruler of Heaven, to redress the balance once Beowulf got back up on his feet" (Norton 75). Where one might say these events are completely random, the narrator explains everything good in nature and terrifying in its randomness has its origin in the will of God. While he is described as being the ultimate protector of man, it is also implied that one must also display admirable traits and hold good intentions to be worthy of the blessings of this god, as well as being able to handle yourself in situations without depending on heavenly intervention. The Danes do not send an inexperienced whelp to cure their monster problem and count on the grace of God; they send a legendary warrior who has demonstrated "God's favor" by being a skilled, virtuous warrior-prince.

Arguably the most resounding effect of Christianity on this tale is the parallels drawn between Beowulf and Christ, and Grendel's mother and Satan. The similarities between Beowulf and