This section contains 593 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) |
Christianity and Paganism in Beowulf
Summary: Explores Beowulf, an epic poem written in the eighth century. Examines the concurring themes of Paganism and Christianity in the poem.
Beowulf is an epic poem written in the eighth century. During this time period, society was in the process of converting from Paganism to Christianity. By combining these two very different beliefs, the poet was able to emphasize the principles of his era by enhancing the qualities of the Pagan and Christian lifestyles.
There are many Pagan influences in the poem of Beowulf. Many of these fit under the superhuman personifications that were given to some of the lead characters. Beowulf was a hero to many of the Helot people. He had many of the characteristics of a Paganistic superhero. In the first battle against Grendal, Beowulf chose not to fight with weapons, but instead to fight with his extraordinary strength. This same strength is seen again when Beowulf fights the dragon. Although he is of very old age he still has enough strength within to defeat the...
This section contains 593 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) |