This poem is known as the mother poem of England and one of the most influential works. All throughout the poem, we are introduced to the religions Christianity and paganism. Pagan ideas and values were a large influence in the creation of Beowulf due to the period it was created in. The poem was written after Anglo-Saxons were Christianized, but it is evident that pagan views were still in their mindsets.
With these ideals still present, paganism and Christianity were woven into the story, and we see a mix of heroic ideals and self-sacrificing virtues that create a story. This can largely be explained by analyzing the people and culture of the period.
While the events of the poem take place in modern-day Scandinavia, the author and audience are assumed to be residents of England. It was written in approximately A. By this time, the Anglo-Saxons were already largely converted to Christianity, but there were still echoes of paganism in their society and beliefs. This is presumed. The unknown author of Beowulf uses examples throughout the poem that suggest the story comes from an "oral" tradition.
In the poem Beowulf, a Germanic scop, or bard, recites poetry orally, or in a song, usually telling stories about historical triumphs and adventures.
These poets were referred to in this epic poem as "carriers of tales This was common in Germanic culture. Scops would keep folkloric heroes alive. The Religious Theme in Beowulf The religious theme in Beowulf offers many insights of the time it was written.
This poem was written at a time of great turmoil in the English and Scandinavian world. Although these people would eventually become Christians, many held tightly to their pagan traditions and ideals.
Beowulf would breach this gap and usher in a new era of beliefs, ideals and, most importantly, a literary. Why is the only specific reference to a Biblical story in Beowulf a mention of the story of Cain and Abel? Review the story of Cain and Abel here. Why might this legend of a murderous clash between brothers be especially relevant for medieval warrior culture? How do these references work to give the reader a sense of the bigger picture, beyond each individual battle that Beowulf fights?
Does the narrator give Beowulf credit for his victories, or does the credit go to God? In what ways is Beowulf a fatalistic epic — that is, do events seem to be fixed and decreed, or do characters have free will and the ability to affect their own destinies? Chew on This The brutal life of a medieval warrior and the blood-feuds between tribes and families that he experiences are symbolized in Beowulf by the fratricidal story of Cain and Abel.
What's Up With the Ending? Tired of ads? Tolkien claimed it as the basis for all English literature. Beyond its role in history and its role in literature, Beowulf also has a role in church history, even as a Christian text. Obviously, Beowulf is a Christ figure. In fact, the book begins with everything being well with the land—all is well, all is at peace. Suddenly, something goes wrong. The author discloses that one from the clan of Cain has come onto the scene—Grendel. This monster wreaks havoc—he is the curse coming to earth, upsetting and disturbing all things, and turning that which is good from the created order into that which is sinful.
Clearly, a hero is needed, one who can come and conquer this foe who has brought disruption to paradise. Beowulf is the hero. When Beowulf achieves victory over Grendel, he bestows gifts; not only gifts to the Geats, but also gifts to his fellow warriors. Almighty God rules over mankind and always has.
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