Beowulf as Christ?
Beowulf is one of the oldest surviving epics in British literature. It was written in the 11th century however the author of this poem is unknown. Many people are under the belief that Beowulf is a representation of Christ in the epic poem Beowulf. Beowulf's supernatural abilities, constant praising of the Lord and mission to save Denmark from all evil is very consistent with what the Bible tells us about Jesus Christ. Others argue that Beowulf's longing for treasure and fame contradict this argument, however I believe that these traits are merely part of Anglo Saxon culture that has influenced the way the story is told. It is clear to me that the author intended to give Beowulf Christ like characteristics, and that he is a direct representation of Jesus. Beowulf is repeatedly said to have been sent from God.Himself had sent a sentinel in Herot,Brought Beowulf as a guard against Grendel and a Behind whom the king could safely rest. (665) Jesus Christ was sent by God to save mankind from their sins; Grendel represents evil "bearing God's hatred" (711) and Beowulf has been sent to save Denmark from this horrid monster. The description of Grendel is clearly symbolic of
the Devil, and his home is Hell; "A powerful monster, living down in the darkness, growled in pain, impatient" (86-87). He has been protected by God in his fight against Grendel and the fight against Grendel's mother. whoever, wherever alive now, or dead [who] knew the grace of God of our fathers [and] was granted a son for her Glory and his" (943-945). This parallel is emphasized heavily throughout the poem. It takes many men to carry the arm of Grendel and yet Beowulf is able to swim up to the surface carrying his head in one hand. For hours he sank through the waves;At last he saw the mud of the bottom" (1492-1496). However, in his seemingly greatest time of need, God does not save him on the cross. Treasure, fame and family name were the top priorities of this time and these aspects obviously influenced the story of Beowulf. It is certainly not a normal occurrence for a man to rip of the arm of a huge monster with his bare hands "I twisted my fingers around his claw, ripped and tore at it as hard as I could" (962-965). Throughout the poem Beowulf is described as a brave and fearless warrior who seeks only riches and fame. He healed the sick, walked on water and predicted the future. Aspects from the previous ways are unavoidably found in Beowulf and many other Christian tales. Jesus was also protected throughout his life by God. Beowulf travels with twelve Geats, and Jesus traveled with twelve apostles.
Common topics in this essay:
Jesus Christ,
Dragon God,
Beowulf Beowulf,
Beowulf Jesus,
Beowulf Christ,
Beowulf Christian,
Christ Beowulf,
Anglo Saxon,
Grendel Beowulf,
Connection Beowulf,
jesus christ,
beowulf christ,
sent god,
bible tells jesus,
treasure fame,
saxon culture,
anglo saxon,
grendel's mother,
mouth story,
bible tells,
tells jesus christ,
anglo saxon culture,
tells jesus,
|
Acceptance Essays
