Fate Vs. Providence In Beowulf

Fate or Providence In Beowulf there is a constant struggle. It may be a physical struggle, psychological struggle, or a struggle between people and beasts. Beowulf is a Geatish hero, warrior, and an emotional being that stands up for and defends the weak or needy. Beowulf has a constant struggle with what seems to be pride, or questions why he does these heroic acts. He questions whether he does these acts for the reason of fate or the reason of providence. Some people believe fate and providence can essentially mean the same thing. But fate cannot occur without some kind of a series of events that God creates to decide someone’s fate. In lines 440-479 Beowulf is speaking about what would happen if he were to lose his battle with Grendel.
In lines 677-685 he says, “When it comes to fighting, I count myself as dangerous any day as Grendel. So it won’t be a cutting edge I’ll wield to mow him down, easily as I might. He has no idea of the arts of war, of shield or sword play, although he does possess a wild strength. No weapons, therefore, for either this night: unarmed he hall face me if face me he dares. And may the Divine Lord in his wisdom grant the glory of victory to whichever side he sees fit.” As he states this he is meaning that he has the strength, the knowledge and skills to overcome the beast. He does however mention God; he asks that the “Divine Lord” will grant wisdom to whoever happens to win. He does not ask for the wisdom to go to him, he says it is God’s decision who comes out victorious. Some people see this as being prideful but he does not ask specifically to be victorious which means that he understands God’s is in control. By him understanding he may lose it brings up the argument of whether he fights these battles as matter of fate or a matter of providence for God. It helps support the decision of an act of providence because he gives God the glory and respect that he trust in him and for understand that his will will done in the