The epic poem of Beowulf was written by up to six different authors. These authors were clearly part of the nations in the middle ages, who were rapidly changing from various Pagan traditions to the monotheistic religion of Christianity. This is apparent because of the numerous literary references to God throughout the poem. Every victory, hopeful message, and time of peacefulness was attributed to God, the Lord God, or God almighty. The concepts of sin against God, and judgment of God upon his people, are also present, and decidedly Christian elements. .
The first noticeable clue to Christian authors is the story of Grendel's origin, as written at the end of chapter one. According to the legend, Grendel was spawned from the slime of a pair of "monsters born of Cain, murderous creatures banished by God, punished forever for the crime of Abel's death." Grendel is also referred to as "the Almighty's enemy". These references suggest that Grendel was the epitome of evil, the very opposite of God, and even a representation of the devil, or demonic being.Since Grendel is evil, he is therefore a rival of God. In the opposite direction, the authors write that anything that bringing good was sure to have been of God.
In Beowulf, all the victories of the title warrior are attributed to the good grace of God. For example, after Beowulf has succeeded in injuring Grendel, (who fled), great speeches take place by Hrothgar and Beowulf, praising God's victory. These dialogues occur during Chapter fourteen, and even though the chapter is only two pages long, God's power, grace, and glory are mentioned ten times. Hrothgar cries, "Let God be thanked! Grendel's terrible anger hung over our heads too long, dropping down misery; but the Almighty makes miracles when he pleases, and this world rests in His hands." Beowulf alike refers to God's power and says of Grendel, "Let him burn in torment, lying and trembling, waiting for the brightness of God to bring him his reward.
