In many ways the epic poem of “Beowulf” serves as both a link and a marker between the two worlds of paganism and Christianity. Although likely composed within the eighth century, the action of the poem is set somewhere around five hundred A.D. this gives Beowulf the dual aspect of both focusing upon an era and a later cultures reflection upon that time period. This Anglican poet fuses Scandinavian history and pagan mythology with Christian elements. However at certain points these elements seem to clash, rather than assimilate seamlessly into one another.

pparent at times when the poet attempts to place Christian ideals, or otherwise moralize the characters and their actions. Within the time of Beowulf there existed a heroic code, which placed its values upon strength, courage and loyalty. All judgments, both moral and those concerning warfare were based upon the edicts of this code. This code, however, at many times opposes the values of medieval Christianity. The code emphasizes the glory that is to be gained in one’s lifetime through heroic deeds, while Christian doctrine stresses that this glory is to be had in the afterlife. Even this concept of “afterlife” is seemingly missing from the Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian people. The closest semblance to an afterlife mentioned is that of ones name and deeds remaining to be celebrated after one’s death.

Another character who serves well to infuse Christianity within this pagan world is Hrothgar. I feel this because of the sermon Hrothgar delivers to Beowulf as a warning on taking his power for granted and becoming too content in his wealth. He reminds Beowulf that all is truly ruled by God, and that pride could lead to sin, bringing anguish upon his people, perhaps in the form of monsters such as Grendel. Hrothgar’s speech of admonition serves to combine the Christian belief in generosity and lack of greed, with the gold giving relationship between thane and retainer. It is evident that the poet always picks opportune moments to attempt to fuse Christian elements into the story where they might serve to give a lesson such as upon the death of Grendel: …the almighty has always moved men;/but man

Some topics in this essay:
Grendel Hrothgar’s, Anglo-Saxon Scandinavian, AD Beowulf, , Abel Cain, Jesus Christ, Testament Nevertheless, Beowulf Christian, christian elements, anonymous poet, christian ideals, christian doctrine, scandinavian people, heroic code,