According to Caroline Brady the history of Beowulf is based on the cultures and religions of the Swedes, Daces and the Geats. In "Warriors in Beowulf" she looks at "the political and social s

The question of whether Beowulf is a Christian text or that influenced by pagan beliefs has long been in question. In "God, Fate, and The Hero of Beowulf" by Mary Tiejen focuses on this controversy and the views of various different analysts and authors. The author states that in recent years the poem has been interpreted as the allegory for Christian salvation. She argues the narrative parallels many stories of Christian sin and pride and the idea that it is a narrative of heroic service much like that of Christ. "Thus, God's control over the decrees of fate consists in Beowulf's killing of Grendal so that, as the poet comments, 'never again would fate decree that he could take any more of the human race for his food, after that night.' God prevents future decrees of fate; he does not reverse its dictates" (163). Paganism influences have been noted as well. One mentioned is that of "wyrd" the author notes however that even this can be seen as in the service of God and therefore not entirely pagan. She furthers her views to say that it is undeniably both a pagan and Christian text and that though the society in some readings appears pagan, the grace of god is also evident. Sarah Smith shares this opinion that the author of Beowulf received a monastic education and would thus be familiar with the ideals of consolation.

Consolation is a theme present in both pagan and Christian philosophies. "In discussing his mission Beowulf uses a number of consolatory aphorisms, and his comportment in the face of death offers a working exemplum of how one should confront grief or bereavement. In line 441 he acknowledges the immanence of God's will; if one of his company is lost, it will be according to Dryhtnes dome (the judgment of god). In conformation to the arguments of both pagan and Christian consolations, Beowulf will accept death if it is so ordained" (Sarah Smith, 198). Beowulf is similarly humble before the working of God and fortune, and admits 'fate goes ever as she will'" (Sarah Smith, 199).

Hume states that the epic does not unfold or possess the thematic nature that heroic narrative does, but is better suited towards a juxtaposition of moral themes. On one hand the critics take the frugal Christian stance and condemn treasure as evil yet on the other hand it is the very ability for the greater good. The meaning of the whole poem turns around the concept and significance of treasure, for Beowulf must be either admired or condemned for his attitude towards it. There are two central reasons why it is difficult to determine what the significance of treasure is within the larger context of the poem. First, as we have seen throughout the evaluation of the poem, there is a continual and strict Christian evaluation that cannot be left un-interpreted. Secondly, as Kathryn Hume explains, in her published article, 'The Theme and Structure of Beowulf' the poet makes almost contradictory statements about the origin of the hoard and the curse laid upon it. As is undeniable through the poem, Beowulf is extremely eager to see what it is that he has won and this is concretely revealed when he asks Wiglaf to bring some gold out and when he goes to the extent of talking about bartering his life for the gold. Obviously, such avarice and self-indulgence suggests acute spiritual shortcomings,

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Approximate Word count = 2235
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)