Beowulf is an electrifying tale, filled with the travels of warriors, and kings; demons and dragons. The poem, on a much more serious level takes a look at the qualities that encompass a hero and Pagan and Christian philosophies. When looked at more thoroughly, the story also reveals an insight into expected behavior in the Anglo-Saxon society.
When Beowulf was a young man, he was fearless. Beowulf behaves as what would be expected of any young Anglo- Saxon man. Young men were to be dignified and brave. Beowulf was just that. He fought Grendel unarmed which was very noble because all battles were fought with swords and armor as a sign of status. He swam in the open sea for seven days to win a bet. After reigning as King for fifty years, and looking back on his younger days, Beowulf admits that it was his ego that causes him to accept the wager. In his old age, however, Beowulf seeks peace for his country rather glory for himself. It is a Christian belief that to do for others is better than to do for yourself. It would appear that as Beowulf matures, his thinking matures as well. He is less arrogant.
Although Beowulf is an incredibly exciting saga, it is a useful insight into the religious beliefs that the Anglo-Saxon's had. As the tale unravels, there is conflict between Pagan and Christian ideologies. .
"And sometimes they sacrificed to the old stone gods,.
Made heathen vows, hoping for Hell's .
Support, the Devil's guidance in driving .
Their affliction off. That was their way, .
And the heathen's only hope, Hell .
Always in their hearts, knowing neither God.
Nor his passing as he walks through our world, .
the lord,.
of heaven and earth; their ears could not hear.
his praise nor know His glory."".
(175-183).
There are references to God and to Hell, however, in this passage we also learn of Pagan practices. "The old stone gods,"" would be a practice of the Pagan religion. This passage emphasizes the need of God to protect people from things that are evil.
