Beowulf as Christian Propaganda

The literary work of Beowulf is believed, by many, to contain numerous attributes of Christian propaganda. Throughout the story of Beowulf, there are several circumstances and coincidences that distinctly relate to the Christian belief system. One can only imagine that these ideas of Christian propaganda; which include the use of Christian themes and beliefs in works of literary art, were strategically placed throughout the story of Beowulf to help the conversion from the old world pagan religious belief system to the Christian beliefs of the new world.

Historians believe that Beowulf was written sometime in the eighth century in England. This fact is important because during this era, society was in the process of converting from paganism to Christianity. Anglo-Saxons were already Christianized, but the pagan traditions that had dominated during this time were not in the distant past. (Anglo-Saxons.net)

As a work of fiction the legitimacy of the story of Beowulf, in a historical context, may be questionable, but it is the teaching behind the text that is important. The story is not completely converted to Christian beliefs. Throughout Beowulf, the legend contains many pagan themes and concepts, but as mentioned it also contains many references to Christianity. Even though the story is fiction, it still fits in very well with the ideals of England during this time. Even though England was mostly Christianized, it still had many pagan tendencies. Although the concepts of paganism as compared to Christianity may seem very similar, these two aspects of Anglo-Saxon life came together to create a form of Christianity that was different from that of mainland Europe. The story of Beowulf may have been a way for the Catholic Church to start introducing the ideas of Christianity to the common people.

Throughout the tale, pagan themes are displayed, but interestingly enough they are then adapted to Christianity. For example, fame and popularity, a common pagan theme, is a recurring one in Beowulf. The men of the time, to gain fame, must demonstrate skill and heroism via battles and heroic acts, so that they may be well known throughout the land as a hero. Beowulf illustrates his willingness to prove himself when he states that he will "either perform some heroic feat, or breathe last in banqueting hall" (line 636-638). Beowulf has decided that he will either accomplish this goal or die in the attempt. This is a heroic act that’s only outcome can be fame. When Beowulf accomplishes this task and wounds Grendel to the point where he can no longer fight and runs away, he has shown both his skillfulness and a great degree of heroism. Hrothgar tells Beowulf that he will be in fame forever, hence the pagan theme. Even though the means through which men of that time gained fame may seem to conflict with many elements of Christianity, the author adapts the pagan theme of fame with many references to God. Although skill and heroism may not necessarily be Christian concepts or virtues, the author attributes both of these to a higher being, God, through the speech of the characters in the story. Hrothgar states that Beowulf's killing of Grendel was achieved "with the Lord’s assistance" (line 939). Consequently, this ties Beowulf's powers and abilities to Gods will, a popular Christian theme and the introduction of Christian propaganda to the story.

Christian propaganda is also sewn into the fabric that makes up Beowulf’s character. If examined closely, Beowulf has many Christ-like characteristics. He understands the dilemma of the Danes that are being oppressed by the evil monster, Grendel, just as Christ knew of the oppression of the Jewish people. Both set out on a venture to save their people, no matter what it takes. The Danes need a savior, and Beowulf, through his aspiration to diffuse their suffering, comes to save them. When Beowulf battles Grendel, he exhibits a sense of fairness, another Christian value, when he refuses to use a weapon. The idea throughout the poem of living right, of loyalty, and of being a good leader can all be seen as traits of Jesus Christ. While Beowulf may represent Christ in this part of the story, it can be viewed that Grendel represents the devil. The battle between Beowulf and Grendel can represent the Christian theme of good versus evil. To make the connection even more solid, Grendel is referred to as a descendant of Cain, whom Satan tricks into sinning and committing the first murder in the human world. Grendel represents the image of a man fallen from grace through sin. Like Satan who is jealous of the happiness and joy that Adam and