Like most early Anglo-Saxon literature, Beowulf exhibits Christian themes that conflict with a "barbaric" Pagan culture. Throughout the work, there is a notable indecision as to who is truly powerful-- the Lord or Beowulf. After Beowulf defeats Grendel, Hrothgar thanks "the Almighty Father" (P. 60, ln. 927) for assisting Beowulf in his battle. Hrothgar then continues to extol Beowulf exclusively, praising how he "accomplished something none of us could manage before now." (P. 60, ln. 939-340). This is just one of many examples of this dissonance in the religious elements of the work. While Hrothgar initially gives credit for the victory to God and Beowulf, he eventually gives almost exclusive praise to Beowulf.
This unexpected and somewhat irrelevant shift begs the question: Were the Christian elements originally intended in the text? In the passage mentioned, the Christian elements seem disjointed and unnecessary. They diminish the human accomplishments of Beowuf and make his heroism seem less impressive, which essentially mitigates his power and success.
Questions:
1. Can Grendel's enchantment please be explained? How does it work and why does he have it?
2. What was the purpose of explaining Beowulf's race at sea with Breca?
3. What was the symbolism in the song sung in Heorot after Grendel is defeated, if any?
Chase, I like the passage you identified and efinitely think the contradictory acknowledgement of Beowulf's and God's strength is interesting, but I am not sure it is unnecessary, though that is certainly a understandable reaction. Why does the author "diminish" Beowulf's accomplishments and give credit to God? Why might this be necessary in a Christian culture? Your blog comes up about 50 words short or so of the minimum 200 word requirement, which would give you more than enough space to keep developing your points.
ReplyDeleteTo answer a few questions, Grendel is said to have an enchantment that protects him against blades and weapons (there is no real explanation as to how he got that protection, besides the fact that his mother seems to have some type of magical powers). Beowulf's race with Breca is a major moment, and one I hope to discuss in class along with the tale of Finn.