Beowulf

            Beowulf is one of the most important works of Old English literature. The epic tells the story of a hero, a Scandinavian prince named Beowulf, who saves the Danes from the monster known as Grendel, and also of his triumphs, fighting Grendel's mother and a Dragon. Throughout the epic, many themes are used to construct a certain profundity to the characters and the story. Some of these themes seen in Beowulf include Wealth , Honor, Christian vs Paganistic ideas , etc. However, the epic's most important theme, is the conflict between virtue and evil. This idea of good vs. evil is portrayed in many ways, as we can see in the story's representation of evil, and the concept of the epic hero. .
             The representation of virtue vs. evil is very clear in the epic. Beowulf is the main illustration of good because of his ability to perform unselfish acts in aid of others. As we can see, goodness is shown throughout this epic as having the ability to cleanse evil. One of Beowulf's deeds is his offer to King Hrothgar, in which he proposes to eliminate Grendel, who had been terrorizing his kingdom, killing innocent lives. Beowulf kills this evil creature, and brings peace to Hrothgar's kingdom, cleansing them of this evil. . Another selfless act is Beowulf' slay of Grendel's mother, who seeks revenge for Grendels death. After Beowulf becomes king in Geatland, he again shows his great ability once more by hie pledge to kill the dragon. As we can see virtue is clearly represented by Beowulf and his heroic actions. In contrast, evil is presented by Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon, who are filled with a yearning to act against people and in the end destroy them. Evil is first shown by the monster Grendel, who without reason or motive, enjoyed killing, making him Beowulf's first evil creature. Another evil beast in Beowulf is Grendel's mother, who is described as "a monstrous hag," She, like her son, represents evil.