Grendel, his mother, and the dragon each represent different conflicts and tribulations of character that plague the mead hall and Beowulf. The symbolic and allegorical interpretation of the poem largely rests on the question of whether Beowulf has ‘the spirit of Christianity’ or it is a memorial to the pagan mind. Beowulf’s sword, named Hrunting, is described as inscribed with symbols, which in and of itself is not unusual. Beowulf is an important text in the history of British literature as it is the first notable work to be written in the English language. During the late 10th century, there was affirmation of warrior and Christian cultures in literary works. https://phdessay.com/pagan-and-christian-symbols-in-beowulf/, Beowulf: Pagan Values Tied with Christianity, Anglo Saxon Culture as Reflected in Beowulf. During the legend probably christian pagan symbols of hypnosis is an entire judeo-christian elements. The names of races including ents, orcs, and elves, and placenames such as Orthanc and Meduseld, derive from B In this, Beowulf demonstrates his Christian beliefs and at the same time gives us a glimpse of how his beliefs are tainted with traces of pagan concepts (Joseph E. Marshall 1-24). The Anglo-Saxons were a definite target. Essay on Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf At the time that Beowulf was written, the culture that produced the poem, the Anglo-Saxons, were a pagan … Start studying Beowulf-Christian-Pagan Symbols. SpeedyPaper website, please click below to request its removal: By clicking “Claim your discount” you agree to be contacted via email, Already used you can also find it in your mailbox, Our support manager will send this sample Beowulf states that the king of the Geats planned to take vengeance after the destruction of the national strongholds by the dragon. PhDessay is an educational resource where over 1,000,000 free essays are collected. The Old Testament character Cain and the pagan idea of fate have been merged to characterize Grendel's mother. Later during the battle, he asserts “So may a man not marked by fate/easily escape exile…by the grace of God” (2291-93) which further illustrates the Christian element in the poem. Hrothgar's great mead-hall, Heorot ("Hall of the Hart"), functions as both setting and symbol in the epic. At this point, the author does not mention God with fate. Christian symbolism in Beowulf within the poem Beowulf, the poet utilizes the Christian religion to symbolize the elements of good and evil and Heaven and Hell. Because the passage talks about a fictitious dragon (a pagan symbol), there is an uneven distribution of the symbols. We find the reference to this pagan symbol after Beowulf defeats Grendel’s mother. Cultural beliefs, values, and assumptions are directly and indirectly acquired throughout a lifetime. Print. The Catholic Church was troublesome to propagate its assents to other compressiveness of the universe. Beowulf. This statement clearly shows that the pagan concept of fate and fortune were tied to God. Examples for this are very easy to find: legendary king Arthur named his sword Escalibur. Would you like to get this essay by email? At the time that Beowulf was written, the culture that produced the poem, the Anglo-Saxons, were a pagan culture. Leaving the plot intact, the writers shifted the accents to make the aesop more Christian-friendly, so that the people who still believe Beowulf … To demonstrate their greatness and prowess, the Danes and Geats in the story had to prove themselves. "Exclusive Medieval Articles - Christianity In Beowulf". The story of Beowulf probably originated as an oral tradition sometime in the 7th century. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf. Beowulf seems to have a belief that a mystical power is always watching over him. At some later point of the poem, however, Hrothgarts wish is that God rewards Beowulf with good fortune as He had done all through. In this poem there are often references to pagan and Christian beliefs very close in the piece of poetry. The author thus attributes the concepts and fame to God, reconciling aspects of paganism and Christianity. The main character of the poem, Beowulf, is. Hrothgart informs Beowulf that all earthly possessions and achievements that have been freely given by God ought to be accepted with humility and shared lest the king bring doom onto himself. The Anglo-Saxons were a definite target. The poem contrasts Christian beliefs and God's will with pagan beliefs such as feuds, fate, vengeance, and pride (Beowulf, 1235). In 1731 the codex was scorched, damaging the last two thousand lines of the poem.. Yet, it is significant beyond its chronological status. The legitimacy of Beowulf as a work of fiction, when put in a historical perspective, is, however, doubtful. Abrams, M. H. The Norton Anthology Of English Literature. Beowulf’s sword, named Hrunting, is described as inscribed with symbols, which in and of itself is not unusual. The peoples tradition is to made sacrifice at the temple of idols, which is very common for obsolete cultures. The pagan and Christian ideas are perfectly laced together to introduce some of the ideas of Christianity to a pagan people. The raven was a symbol from Norse mythology; it was the messenger for a war god named Odin. Shadowedrealm.com. This, however, is not in tandem with Christian concepts as Gods protection does not need to be earned; He gives it graciously (Stevick 79-89). This gives the impression that the people, as represented by Beowulf himself, valued fame so much. By binding these two elements together, the monk was trying to make Christianity seem less foreign and more like something familiar to the people. These beliefs neither contradict, nor outshine each other. Beowulf is the typical heroic. 46 in beowulf and pagan until the poem. It was composed after the conversion of Anglo-Saxons into Christianity, yet their pagan tendencies which they were used to in their earlier ways of life was carried into the narrative Beowulf. This was in reference to imminent death that would befall one of them. A good king is one who freely shares his possessions, not fearfully holding them onto himself. This, again, ties a popular belief among the Anglo-Saxons to a Christian belief. to you via live chat, To get this sample, please, contact our support managers, and they will send it to you via email. In Beowulf there are many references to pagan and Christian beliefs. This is not an example of the work written by our professional essay writers. N.p., 2016. Traditionally, warriors had to give a proper name for their weapons. These beliefs neither contradict, nor outshine each other. Moreover, the fight between Beowulf and the dragon in the passage contributes to the warrior code and heroism,which contradicts … Rather, the monks writing the work interjected some Christian ideas in order to try and sell Christianity to the people that were familiar with the tale. However, there seems to be a held notion that Gods protection need to be earned by the warrior who must first be true to his values, courage, pride and humility before God can protect him. Hrothgart, however, rises up to thank the almighty for the heros words after Beowulf had given his speech. "Goldgyfan Or Goldwlance: A Christian Apology For Beowulf And Treasure". The poem and Beowulf both show paganism and Christianity ideals and beliefs. How about making it original at only $7.00/page. Haven’t found the relevant content? Beowulf is a man who boasts, yet he also has wisdom and humility. Beowulf is the oldest known English epic poem. Retrieved from https://phdessay.com/pagan-and-christian-symbols-in-beowulf/. During the legend probably christian pagan symbols of hypnosis is an entire judeo-christian elements. Beowulf, just before his battle with the dragon, resigns himself to the pagan concept of fate when he says that fate shall decide the issue. Yet, it is significant beyond its chronological status. Many of the texts that we have out of that time period were written by Catholic monks. The Catholic Church was trying to spread its beliefs to other parts of the world. In Beowulf there are many references to pagan and Christian beliefs. Web. Hrothgart, for instance, states that Beowulf killing of Grendel was achieved through the power of the Lord. At the time that Beowulf was written, the culture that produced the poem, the Anglo-Saxons, were a pagan culture. Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts. This was very characteristic of England at this time period-though it was converted to Christianity, it still practiced many pagan tendencies. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf. Hrothgart states that it is better for a man to avenge the death of his friend than to grieve along. Aristotle and Augustine; There is a dichotomy of values in Beowulf: that of pride vs. humility. On the one hand Beowulf is reminded that pride will bring destruction: "until his portion of pride increases and flourishes within him; then the watcher sleeps, the souls guardian; that sleep is too sound, bound in its own cares" (5.9). Pagan symbols such as ravens, dragons and monsters, and poison can be found throughout the epic of Beowulf. Scholars In the epic poem, Beowulf, the ideals of Christianity dominate over those of paganism through the shift of pagan values to praises of God, the biblical allusions, and the role Beowulf plays as a Christ-like figure, proving the author’s bias and demonstrating the nature of the Anglo-Saxon time period. In Beowulf, some of the most important symbols are Hrothgar's mead-hall, Grendel's cave, Grendel's arm and head, and the dragon's treasure-trove. Save time and let our verified experts help you. Both “The Dream of the Rood” and “Beowulf,” authors unknown, have Christian elements throughout the text, but “Beowulf” also greatly embraces the pagan, warrior culture. Scholarly ments as a relic of the traditional pagan symbols. Studies in Philology 107.1 (2009): 1-24. (2016, Nov 24). 46 in beowulf and pagan until the poem. (lines 2511-2515) This gives to credit to God for his actions, but it does tie God into fame. number: 206095338. Hrothgart at some point in the passage tells Beowulf that the status of a king is achieved by the grace of God. There are many religious symbols in the poem of Beowulf. Eckleburg short essay intro nov 18, b. Christian Elements In Beowulf. All the work should be used in accordance with the appropriate policies and applicable laws. x Heorot. Now I am old, But as king of this people I shall pursue this fight For the glory of winning, if the evil one will only Abandon his earth-fort and face me in the open. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools. Symbols & Symbolism in Beowulf Beowulf Honor Quotes: Examples & Analysis Good vs. Hrothgart is amazed at how Gods spirit could give wisdom to mankind, land, and earlship, implying that earthly power and status held by man is only an illusion; true power is freely given by God. Fame, a pagan concept is clearly demonstrated in Beowulf. This would tie a familiar belief to something exotic to the Anglo-Saxons. Fame was therefore required to be attained by all means necessary, which in most instances conflicted with certain Christian elements. We find the reference to this pagan symbol after Beowulf defeats Grendel's mother. He gave credit for this provision to the wielder of Men. Beowulf is an important text in the history of British literature as it is the first notable work to be written in the English language. There is a relic of beowulf, green's blue flame gas co. At the end of the attack on Grendel’s mother, in lines 1553-1556, the outcome of the fight was said to have been decided by God. When narrating his battle with Grendels mother, for instance, Beowulf states that the fight would have ended straightaway had God not been his protector. Web. All that a man enjoys here on earth is only granted by the grace of God. is a custom writing service that provides online on-demand writing work for assistance purposes. This idea, however, contradicts Christian values and ideals. Grendel He is a descendant of Cain, the biblical character who jealously murdered his brother Abel—a crime for which his … The mead hall symbolizes the center of civilization. In Norse pagan and other ancient belief systems, wyrd is akin to fate and symbolized by the Norns, … Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts. The narrative Beowulf also stresses the fact that all earthly good, be it possessions or success has its origins in God. Web. Yet, it is significant beyond its chronological status. At the time that Beowulf was written, the culture that produced the poem, the Anglo-Saxons, were a pagan culture. Beowulf is a pagan story written by pagan people in a time when paganism ruled. In Beowulf there are many references to pagan and Christian beliefs. A literary symbol is something, often an object, that stands for a significant concept or series of ideas. This is just like Hell. By continuing we’ll assume you’re on board with our cookie policy. However, the biggest clue to the paganism of Beowulf is the scene that contains the burial of Beowulf and the building and idolization of the tower, all of which go directly against the Christian religion.Pagan symbols such as ravens, dragons and monsters, and poison can be found throughout the epic of Beowulf. Author The main example is that they live underground, and the lake above their home was described as a “fiery flame”. This paper explores Christian and pagan symbols present in the work Beowulf and how they have been reconciled so as to appeal to the Christian audience to whom it was addressed (Stevick 79-89). Beowulf: An intersection of Christian and pagan ideals The epic poem Beowulf is the story of a great, ideal hero of Anglo-Saxon, pre-Christian culture transposed into Christian times. Eckleburg short essay intro nov 18, b. Enter your email to get this essay sample. The raven was a symbol from Norse mythology; it was the messenger for a war god named Odin. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf. It is commonly associated with death or greatness. SpeedyPaper.com At some point later, Beowulf states that he thought he had greatly angered the Lord by breaking the commandments. He further reminds Beowulf that life in itself is a gift from God and that our bodies have been loaned to us which will eventually weaken and fall. On the other hand, it demonstrates how the people valued avenging for the loss of their loved friend or family member. Yet, it is significant beyond its chronological status. This essay has been submitted by a student. It is later mentioned when Beowulf fights the dragon, which leads to his own demise because he went against wyrd, or his destined path.Another pagan element in Beowulf is the use of special swords. The Catholic Church was trying to spread its beliefs to other parts of the world. Earlier in the poem God had helped Beowulf on his quest, which gained him eternal fame. This is seemingly contradictory as at one point the character talks of vengeance, a pagan concept, and under the same breath, he thanks the Almighty. Critical Essays Major Symbols in Beowulf. The Beowulf manuscript survives in one codex, the British Museum MS. Cotton Vitellius A. XV. Containing both Christian and pagan elements, Beowulf reflects the historical-relgious context in which it was written. Wyrd is mentioned frequently in Beowulf. I believe Beowulf was written with an Anglo-Saxon foundation, but there was an attempt at relating Christian beliefs to the Anglo-Saxon ways. Heorot itself is allegorical for a … Because of its complicated origin, Beowulf has elements of both pagan Germanic culture and Christianity. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf At the time that Beowulf was written, the culture that produced the poem, the Anglo-Saxons, were a pagan culture. Because ritual behaviors and tokens of loyalty are so central to pagan Germanic culture, most of the objects mentioned in Beowulf have symbolic status not just for the … No personal data is being tracked. Sorry, but it's not possible to copy the text due to security reasons. Lawson, Rich. Beowulf, for instance, had to prove himself by mortally wounding Grendel, thus demonstrating his prowess and his heroism (Lawson). Get the story the history of pre–anglo-saxon culture. In the poem Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney, Beowulf is the ultimate hero who places himself at great risks to perform multiple acts of courage. Heorot itself is allegorical for a … The purpose of adding Christian elements to Beowulf was not to outshine the pagan beliefs but to make Christianity something the Anglo-Saxons would understand. A culture is the sum of. Though at first he intended to take vengeance, he later takes a look at himself and thinks that he had angered the Lord, which is both a contradiction as well as a reconciliation of pagan and Christian concepts (Abrams). The Catholic Church was trying to spread its beliefs to other parts of the world. It incorporates many pagan themes and concepts, yet it. The Anglo-Saxons were a definite target. It is a popular thought among the scientists that the Christian monks were rewriting the story, preserving the original plot turns, but toning down the Pagan symbols in “Beowulf”, emphasizing instead such Christian virtues as selflessness, moderation and caring for others. Beowulf, as he was going to fight with Grendels mother in the cave came across a powerful weapon hanging on the wall. Grendel, his mother, and the dragon each represent different conflicts and tribulations of character that plague the mead hall and Beowulf. This is because the pagan concepts included in Beowulf were also found in some other works of the period which had many Christian concepts and ideals therein. The Catholic Church was trying to spread its beliefs to other parts of the world. Beowulf himself is defined in terms of wyrd. Joseph E. Marshall,. At this point there is no mention of God or God’s help. He states that God has most often been the guide of the man who has no friends. Every culture has its own set of beliefs values and customs. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf. Modern Philology 61.2 (1963): 79-89. If you are the original author of this essay and no longer wish to have it published on the The Anglo-Saxons were a definite target. J. R. R. Tolkien, a fantasy author and professional philologist, drew on the Old English poem Beowulf for multiple aspects of his Middle-earth legendarium, both in terms of elements such as names, monsters, and the structure of society in a heroic age, in terms of style such as creating an impression of depth and adopting an elegiac tone, and in terms of its larger but hidden symbolism. In addressing the King just before his fight with Grendel, Beowulf states that whoever was to be killed in the duel had to resign himself to the verdict of God and that fate should determine the issue. We have come across a few Christian elements, but many elements found were pagan. Symbolism In Grendel And Beowulf. The symbols in this poem clearly present a good-versus-evil relationship that could be interpreted to inspire warriors in a variety of situations. SpeedyPaper.com © 2021 All rights reserved, First name should have at least 6 letters, Phone number should have at least 10 digits, Jane as Student vs. Jane as Teacher/Governess, Balancing Local Standardized Products Globally, Transformation of the UAE in the Last Two Decades, Disadvantages And Advantages Of Internet Essay Sample, Language as a mask in Bruce Norris Clybourne Park. Beowulf is an important text in the history of British literature as it is the first notable work to be written in the English language. However, the patterns are described as ill-boding, something many scholars interpret as meaning the carvings were considered pagan by the Beowulf Poet. Pagan and Christian Symbols in Beowulf At the term that Beowulf was written, the amelioration that performed the strain, the Anglo-Saxons, were a idolatrous amelioration. In lines 1261-1268, the story of Cain and Abel are briefly explained, but not far from this Christian reference is the idea of revenge, in line 1278, which is frowned upon in Christianity, but it was a popular belief among the Anglo-Saxon culture at that time.