Discuss biblical allusions and religious symbolism in Beowulf.
There are numerous different religious allusions and symbolism presented in Beowulf. Both the Danes and the Geats believe that God and fate are the reason for all of life's events. People, like Beowulf, all have their futures predetermined. Those who are successful, are given the tools they need to succeed combined with the will of God to enable them to achieve greatness. They attribute all of their victories to god: "had not holy God granted him victory; the wise Lord, Ruler of the Heavens, settled the issue easily after the hero had scrambled to his feet"(1537-1540). God's influence in their lives is praised as Beowulf, a "man [...] much favored by fate"(1685), proclaims his gratitude after his success in the battle with Grendel's mother: "the risk was enormous; our encounter would have ended at once if God had not guarded me"(1639-1641). In addition to God playing a major role in the lives of the people in Beowulf. There are also many allusions to the Bible. For example, Grendel and his mother both stand for hatred and evil, especially because Grendel is the representation of the devil and the "embittered fiend, enemy of god"(1664-1665). After Grendel and his mother were killed, it was like the world was "purged of its impurity"(1605).
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Essential #1
Essential #1: What are the social obligations of a hero? Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?
Although the actions, powers, or capabilities of a hero may differ, almost all heroes share the same social obligations. Most heroes gain their title and respect from the public by serving and protecting the people. It is a hero's job to be selfless and put the wellbeing of the public before anything. A hero must serve and protect the people, even if it takes an immense amount of courage and strength in a potentially uncomfortable or dangerous situation.
It seems that Beowulf is aware of his deification process. When Beowulf heard of Hrothgar's troubles with Grendel, he "said he would sail over the sea to assist the famous leader; the warrior king, since he needed hardy men"(199-201). Beowulf is confident that his abilities will be able to help Hrothgar, and if Beowulf did not view himself as a hero, he probably would not have gone to aid someone in need of help. Furthermore, like Beowulf, other members of society recognize his heroic qualities, and perpetuate Beowulf's deification process. People who lay eyes on Beowulf for the first time recognize how special he is: "I've never set eyes on a more noble man, a warrior in armor, than one among your band; he's no mere retainer, so enobled by his weapons. May his looks never belie him and his lordly bearing"(244-248), and have no doubt in Beowulf's capabilities: "They, in their armor, seem altogether worthy of the highest esteem. I have no doubt of their leader's might, he who has brought these brave men to Herot"(365-367).
Although the actions, powers, or capabilities of a hero may differ, almost all heroes share the same social obligations. Most heroes gain their title and respect from the public by serving and protecting the people. It is a hero's job to be selfless and put the wellbeing of the public before anything. A hero must serve and protect the people, even if it takes an immense amount of courage and strength in a potentially uncomfortable or dangerous situation.
It seems that Beowulf is aware of his deification process. When Beowulf heard of Hrothgar's troubles with Grendel, he "said he would sail over the sea to assist the famous leader; the warrior king, since he needed hardy men"(199-201). Beowulf is confident that his abilities will be able to help Hrothgar, and if Beowulf did not view himself as a hero, he probably would not have gone to aid someone in need of help. Furthermore, like Beowulf, other members of society recognize his heroic qualities, and perpetuate Beowulf's deification process. People who lay eyes on Beowulf for the first time recognize how special he is: "I've never set eyes on a more noble man, a warrior in armor, than one among your band; he's no mere retainer, so enobled by his weapons. May his looks never belie him and his lordly bearing"(244-248), and have no doubt in Beowulf's capabilities: "They, in their armor, seem altogether worthy of the highest esteem. I have no doubt of their leader's might, he who has brought these brave men to Herot"(365-367).
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