Beowulf Good Vs Evil
Struggle Between Good and Evil Beowulf is one of the oldest existing Anglo-Saxon epic poems in the English Literature and can be dated back to 700 A.D by an unknown poet. Many events in Beowulf are somewhat or directly related to the bible. One of the main surrounding themes of Beowulf is the struggle battle between good and evil. According to the poem, when looking at “good”, one and the only character that really represents this is the epic hero, Beowulf. On the other hand, “evil” refers to the “monsters” that Beowulf had fought. Thus, there are biblical evidences that are related to the theme of good and evil. Hrothgar can be seen as a symbol of good in this epic. He is a mentor and a father figure to young Beowulf. He seeks protection
…show more content…
There are many debates on why Beowulf chooses to fight Grendel without armor and weapons. Some people interpreted Beowulf as over-confident and careless, however according to the bible, this can be related to Jesus. Jesus can heal people with his hands, thus Beowulf can end evil force with his hands. Consequently, this symbolizes a form of purity in both of the context. Once he defeats Grendel’s mother, the swamp is illuminated more thoroughly, “A light appeared and the place brightened/ the way the sky does when heaven’s candle/ is shining clearly” (2222) This light implied to the Christian holiness and salvation, suggesting that hell has been purged of its evil and sanctity restored. Additionally this portrayed Beowulf as Jesus’ resurrection and transition of age, becoming a wiser man. Furthermore, this is a foreshadowing of an event where Beowulf will receive words of advice from Hrothgar of becoming a great man and a great ruler. In the eyes of the Danes, Beowulf can easily be seen as a messiah, who have came rescue them from the monsters. The character of Beowulf evolves into a more mature character, and most importantly he follows the Germanic heroic code of loyalty, courtesy and pride. When offers with kingship, Beowulf gently decline and support the prince until he is old enough to become a king.
There are many debates on why Beowulf chooses to fight Grendel without armor and weapons. Some people interpreted Beowulf as over-confident and careless, however according to the bible, this can be related to Jesus. Jesus can heal people with his hands, thus Beowulf can end evil force with his hands. Consequently, this symbolizes a form of purity in both of the context. Once he defeats Grendel’s mother, the swamp is illuminated more thoroughly, “A light appeared and the place brightened/ the way the sky does when heaven’s candle/ is shining clearly” (2222) This light implied to the Christian holiness and salvation, suggesting that hell has been purged of its evil and sanctity restored. Additionally this portrayed Beowulf as Jesus’ resurrection and transition of age, becoming a wiser man. Furthermore, this is a foreshadowing of an event where Beowulf will receive words of advice from Hrothgar of becoming a great man and a great ruler. In the eyes of the Danes, Beowulf can easily be seen as a messiah, who have came rescue them from the monsters. The character of Beowulf evolves into a more mature character, and most importantly he follows the Germanic heroic code of loyalty, courtesy and pride. When offers with kingship, Beowulf gently decline and support the prince until he is old enough to become a king.