The examination of the interplay between good and evil in Beowulf can be accomplished through the perspective of Christianity and Christian theology, as depicted in the book. Beowulf is a poem that encompasses both Germanic warrior values and Christian beliefs, and the unfolding of these values is vital for the thematic analysis of the poem. One example is seen in the portrayal of Grendel, a monster perceived as evil, and Beowulf's intervention to defend the Danish king during Grendel's attack (Davis 117). Grendel symbolizes the presence of evil in the poem, and it is emphasized that his lineage can be traced back to Cain, who was the first murderer in the Bible, further emphasizing his malevolence. In contrast, Beowulf embodies a Christ-like figure, representing the ultimate source of goodness.
The text describes Beowulf's triumph over three monsters, symbolizing ev
...il: Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon (Puchner 107). The battles proved to be extremely challenging, especially the fight against the dragon. Nonetheless, Beowulf remained resolute and well-prepared for this daunting task. The dragon had been wreaking havoc on his people, compelling Beowulf to take it upon himself to eliminate the threat with assistance from one of his followers. Although he ultimately achieved success in his mission, Beowulf met his demise as a result of a fatal injury.
From this poem's events, we understand that evil will always prosper in the world, regardless of the significance of good. Beowulf plays a crucial role in society by illustrating the battle between good and evil and promoting positive values. This epic poem holds great importance as it reflects various aspects of society and contemporary life, much like other narratives and film
that explore the theme of good versus evil. The protagonist of the poem, Beowulf, exemplifies the values cherished by society as he constantly strives to defeat the universally acknowledged villain of the time (Abrams 87).
The poem highlights the pervasive presence of good and evil in contemporary society, emphasizing that they are not strictly binary opposites but rather characteristics that individuals possess. The distinction lies in how prominently these qualities are exhibited. Beowulf, for instance, demonstrates selflessness in his actions for the greater good of others, exemplifying the utmost level of human goodness.
The entire epic of Beowulf shows the ability to eliminate evil as an act of goodness. The three villains in the story, Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon, exhibit their selfish and harmful desires. These villains demonstrate human qualities, particularly pride, as a form of evil in Beowulf (Race 105). However, Beowulf consistently acts as the hero, rescuing the people who are endangered by the widespread evil in Anglo-Saxon society. Beowulf’s selfless nature is evident in his assistance to another country, helping them overcome a deadly monster that had caused terror.
Beowulf, despite the threat of a deadly monster, took it upon himself to restore the people. Evil has always prevailed in the world, but it takes an extraordinary effort and individual to overcome it. Beowulf, as a symbol of extreme goodness, has been sent from heaven to protect the earth from monsters like Grendel (Abrams 103). Due to his good deeds, Beowulf is considered the chosen one and the poem depicts him as a heroic figure who withstands evil. The author's intention is clearly shown by presenting Beowulf as the protagonist and a central
figure to showcase the society's values. Beowulf represents goodness not only through selfless acts.
Rather, the poet has expressed that goodness has also been shown in the sense of cleansing evil. According to Heaney (49), Beowulf had purged the hall of Hrothgar and cleaned it of crime, displaying the sentiments that the hero's heart is purified. It is evident that Beowulf's goodness is capable of overcoming and eliminating evil. By defeating both Grendel and his mother, Beowulf destroyed the evil that had plagued Hrothgar's hall for a long time. Beowulf serves as the ultimate symbol of purity, embodying all that is good. However, evil persists, and it is Beowulf's duty to constantly seek ways to conquer it.
Beowulf was considered a hero during the Anglo-Saxon era because he possessed traits that were highly esteemed in that society. His actions were seen in a favorable light because they exemplified these characteristics. According to Ryder (113), the Anglo-Saxon society placed great value on qualities such as bravery, honor, and respect. These virtues left no room for evil, instead reinforcing what was deemed good and valuable. The epic poem serves as a means to educate readers on the values and traits of that time period. Furthermore, these values continue to be upheld in modern society, where positive traits in individuals are praised and promoted while negative ones are regarded as harmful, particularly during the process of socialization in children.
Beowulf is depicted as an honorable, brave man with exceptional warrior skills and deep respect for his ancestors. His unwavering confidence in his virtuous actions spurs him to continue doing good and assisting those in need. The epic poem aims to portray
Beowulf as a complete contrast to Grendel and the other despised monsters, who embody traits abhorred in Anglo-Saxon society (Race 109). The epic poem masterfully showcases the upheld and detrimental values prevalent in the community it portrays.
The interpretation of the poem taught the people to discern between good and evil. One can easily recognize Grendel, a character in the epic, as a villain. Grendel kills innocent people for mere enjoyment. Any average person would be unable to match his strength, allowing him to continue his evil rampage that threatens humanity. Despite the people of that time encouraging and upholding virtuous principles, evil always found a way to bypass them. Nevertheless, Grendel (representing evil) was no match for the ultimate force of good, Beowulf, and was ultimately defeated in their duel.
Grendel had never encountered anyone like Beowulf before. When they engaged in a duel, Grendel quickly realized that it had no chance and attempted to escape. However, Beowulf's overwhelming power of good prevailed and the monster met its demise. The author successfully conveyed his message in this situation - Grendel was intended to represent the monster and evil, while Beowulf embodied pure goodness, which ultimately prevailed. Additionally, the epic poem portrays pride as another form of evil. The value of pride is heavily despised in the poem, regardless of who exhibits this characteristic, as it goes against societal norms.
Therefore, numerous examples depict pride as a wicked trait. One instance is when Hrothgar cautions Beowulf about succumbing to pride, explaining how evil will take hold of his heart as his pride continues to grow. This serves as a valuable lesson for the Anglo-Saxon society, as it emphasizes
the importance of not letting pride overpower one's heart, since it inevitably leads to downfall.
Hrothgar warns Beowulf about the dangers of pride, stating that if he continues to act out of pride, his power will be taken away (Heaney 75). Despite Beowulf being a symbol of goodness with great power, he has allowed evil (pride) to prevail. Hrothgar reminds Beowulf that even though he is powerful and good, he is not immune to evil and could face downfall if he continues to let pride control him. Pride is an evil with serious consequences. Throughout the epic, good triumphs over evil, as intended by the author to teach a lesson to the audience.
The poem emphasizes that evil does not lead to anything positive. This is shown through the characters of Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon. It also clarifies that good and evil cannot coexist; one is either good or evil, and they will alternate. The epic uses these monsters to demonstrate not only the wickedness in Anglo-Saxon society but also the instability of the community. Although Grendel may be a fictional creation, the message conveyed is based on reality; within the society depicted in the epic, there exists a truth where evil unfolds. Evil persists and can only be overcome by people's inherent goodness.
Regardless of societal morality, evil deeds and traits always find their way into people's hearts and become detrimental to society. The epic's central conflict of good versus evil has been a revelation in contemporary writings and interpretations. The poet's intention was to convey that evil always prevails, and only pure goodness can surpass it.
Work Cited
- Abrams, M.H. The Norton Anthology
of English Literature. New York: Norton, 2000
