Beowulf
In the heroic epic Beowulf, there are various examples of religious beliefs, both Christian and pagan. These examples play a major role in the tale, and include things such as God's love (Christian) and making sacrifices to several gods (pagan). Explanations of these beliefs are necessary to understand this epic and here six of these beliefs will be discussed, three Christian and three pagan. One of the many Christian beliefs is expressed at the beginning of the tale, when the creation of the earth is explained. The epic describes creation by saying that The Almighty (God) made and shaped the earth. The explanation given matches that of the first book of the Bible, Genesis. This belief is used to help introduce Grendel and where he came from.
hristian belief is used when king Hrothgar's throne is described as being protected by God. Royal possessions, and even royal members themselves, were ordained, therefore pure, clean, and protected. Such practices still exist today. However, only royalty and religious figures are said to be "ordained". One of the biggest and final pagan beliefs is given at the end of the epic, when Beowulf's body is burned. Pagans believe this burning releases the spirit to travel on to the afterworld. Many believe this also helps stop enemies from overtaking the body and spirit. Not only are Christian beliefs displayed in Beowulf, but also pagan practices are used. A first of these is the ritual of sacrificing to the stone gods, the making of heathen vows, hoping fo
Some common words found in the essay are:
Geat Pagan, Heaven Christian, , Numerous Christian, God Royal, Heaven Christians, Grendel Christian, Almighty God, Bible Genesis, christian pagan, christian beliefs, pagan beliefs, pagans believe, pagan practices, christian belief,
Approximate Word count = 511
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)
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