Christian-Pagan Syncretism In Beowulf

The Old English epic poem Beowulf poses something for an enigma for scholars. The poet was surely a Christian, but the poem depicts a pagan society, so what sort of religion is being expressed. Most recent scholars have argued for a Christian reading, but others still hold out for a pagan one. Some have suggested Christian-pagan syncretism. Pagan beliefs involve sacrifices to the old stone Gods, making heathen vows, hoping for Hell’s support, the devil’s guidance in driving their affliction off. This was their way and the Heathen’s only hope.Some suggest Christian-pagan syncretism. Anglo-Saxon epic heroes are willing to put their own lives in danger for the greater good. Beowulf highlights the code’s points of tension by relating circumstances

In a regular conversation, epic hero can be identified to simply be a hero who possesses remarkable strength and powers that can is characterized as timeless. A real literary epic hero must meet up and require a set of criteria regarding his/her abilities and character: qualities that ensure his distinction at a level above other great individuals. To be a hero, one must possess the following qualities: “courage, loyalty, wisdom, boasting, and physical strength”, but an epic hero is a hero that obtains honor from completing battles with superior enemies, and particularly those who are considered to be god-despising creatures ( Garcia n.p. ). A hero in During his battle against Grendel’s mother, Beowulf proves himself of his strength by picking up “another sword, which no man can pick up except him” (Garcia n.p.). Though, being a hero involves possessing “strength, courage, and honor, these codes also included loyalty, generosity, and hospitality” (Garcia n.p.). Aside from looking like a God like in flesh and maintaining a reputation of superhuman ability, an epic hero should also be an eloquent speaker, and will use his or her skills of elocution to address elders or members of royalty. Beowulf exercises his speaking ability early and often, first when he encounters with the Danish guard , he handles himself respectfully and well- mannered, and then when he ends up addressing King Hrothgar in the mead