Paganism In Beowulf

The unknown Christian author of Beowulf has created a work that exactly mirrors the differences of Christian symbolism, pagan symbolism, and the conflicts between them so they can come to life in the story. Therefore it shows you the challenges that they faced between paganism and Christianity. Beowulf is a warrior but he struggles between being pagan and Christian. He is a follower of God but sometimes you see the pagan side of his beliefs come out. For example, Grendels den is an example and seen as hell. But on the other hand herot hall is known as heaven because it is a safe place to everyone. First, Grendel’s / his mothers home is a symbol of paganism. It symbolizes the sea where it is referred to as hell on earth. The den is a dark
For example, the “Song of Creation” is symbol of how God created the earth and how all things are made in nature. “ The Almighty making earth, shaping these beautiful plains marked off by the ocean, then proudly setting the sun and moon” (l. 7-9). Another example, Beowulf in the poem talked about the dip he took in the lake after killing Grendel, Beowulf is still angry and wants Grendel’s mother. “… He leaped into the lake, would not wait for anyone’s answer; the heaving water covered him over, for hours he sank” (l.570-73). This is an example of the baptism of Beowulf just like how God was baptized. Another example is Hrothgar and Herot, Herot is basically like heaven and Hrothgar is the king. He is pretty much like God in heaven protecting everyone and his people. Further more, in the end when Beowulf cries out to fate “ I mean to stand, not run from his shooting flames, stand till fate decides” (l.675-676). This is an example of when paganism and Christianity both take a roll in Beowulf’s life because at this point he knows he needs God. Also these contradict because it is good verses evil and Beowulf takes the good side at some points and the evil side in