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Examples Of Juxtaposition In Beowulf

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Juxtaposition of Pagan and Christian Beliefs

In Beowulf, the unknown author uses the juxtaposition of Christian and Pagan beliefs and ideals to convey the idea that accommodating two belief systems is difficult and unlawful. Throughout the epic poem the mix of Christian and Pagan beliefs in the Anglo-Saxon society coexist. The characters throughout the poem acknowledge Gods presence, but they drift back to pagan cultural values, which cause complications for the characters throughout the book. Throughout the entire epic poem of “Beowulf” the juxtaposition of pagan and Christian beliefs is evident and causes inner tension and problems to arise. Pagan code maintains honor is gained during life through deeds and acts of heroism. Beowulf keeps …show more content…

Beowulf also praises God, trusts in him, and always seems willing to submit to Gods will this juxtaposition is found throughout the poem. Hrothgar even tells Beowulf “It is wondrous to tell how the mighty God in the strength of his spirit sends wisdom to mankind and grants position and authority-he holds dominion over everything” (Unknown 60). The two belief systems are integrated in this poem and in some ways can coexist, but in many ways they cause conflict. The warrior culture that is present at the time of “Beowulf” dictates that it is always better to retaliate than to mourn on a loss. This warrior culture value is presented each time Beowulf fight Grendel, Grendel’s mom, and the dragon. Christianity advocates a peaceful forgiving attitude towards enemies. Throughout the poem there never seems to be any mention of a …show more content…

The pagan ideals and values displayed throughout the poem expose how destructive and misguiding the ideas of paganism can be. The people believe in God but hold onto their pagan values, which causes them to keep their culture of destruction and terror, directly violating their belief in God. As written in Matthew ch.7: 24 “No one can serve two masters, He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other, you cannot serve God and mammon.” The characters in “Beowulf” try to brush aside the cultural values that they must obey as Christian and live in a Christian world with pagan values. Just as it is stated in the bible, it is almost impossible to fully serve two masters like the Anglo-Saxons try to do. Even though throughout most of the story the people only worship and praise God, they still keep their beliefs and values mainly pagan. Although the author doesn’t display or highlight the issues that this causes, the story could have played out a lot differently if the Anglo-Saxons would have fostered Christian beliefs. At the core of Christianity is being humble, pride and personal fame and glory are highly valued in “Beowulf”. Another core value of Christianity is not placing value on worldly goods, but on heavenly

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