Christian Elements in Beowulf

Blending Pagan and Christian Themes in Beowulf

The epic poem Beowulf was written during a time of great change. Ancient pagan societies were going through extreme religious and cultural transitions with the widespread adoption of Christianity throughout Europe at the time. This was definitely a changing way of life for many, and such drastic cultural changes are seen in the literature of the period as well. In fact, one of the earliest English poems, Beowulf, has an interesting juxtaposition of ancient pagan and Christian themes. Although the poem has obvious references to an ancient pagan way of life, it is filled with Christian references as well, illustrating the changing nature of society at the time when it was transitioning from paganism to Christianity. Clearly, the epic poem Beowulf blends emerging Christian philosophies with more ancient pagan traditions of the region.

Fate, also referenced as wyrd in...
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