Beowulf

Consolation is a theme present in both pagan and Christian philosophies. It is his greatness that fights against the forces of evil. Now if Beowulf were indeed in the strictest sense a Christian poem with a Christian ending, you would expect an ending different from the death and destruction. Thus again Beowulf and his men set out to kill the Dragon. On one hand the critics take the frugal Christian stance and condemn treasure as evil yet on the other hand it is the very ability for the greater good. In this section a loan thief awakens the dragon that will kill Beowulf, and put an end to the communal strength that Beowulf represented and defended. Upon Beowulf’s arrival in Hrothgar’s land he is stopped by a guard who challenges Beowulf and his men. The singing is the mose basic illustration of the strength and positive effects the community had on the lives of all who lived in it. He is seen going against Grendal, this represents Christianity against evil.

The theme of religion in Beowulf is evidenced by both pagan and Christian influences in one society as a whole. At the very start of Beowulf this is illustrated by Beowulf reaching out to Hrothgar and his people, to bring to them aid and defense from evil that plagued their land. The meaning of the whole poem turns around the concept and significance of treasure, for Beowulf must be either admired or condemned for his attitude towards it. Sarah Smith shares this opinion that the author of Beowulf received a monastic education and would thus be familiar with the ideals of consolation.

The question of whether Beowulf is a Christian text or that influenced by pagan beliefs has long been in question. The two immediately visible shortcomings of the curse are as follows.