the reader with an idea that the poem was written during a time when society was in the

process of being converted from paganism to Christianity. The Christian influences were

combined with early folklore and heroic legends of German tribes. The reader attempts

to look at whether or not Christian and biblical influences were later added to the

original pagan poem or weather they already existed. The fact that Christianity and

paganism are so closely intertwined in the poem is the reason Beowulf has both Christian

The pagan elements in the epic poem Beowulf are evident in the characters

superhuman strengths. Beowulf is depicted as a superhero. Beowulf takes it upon himself

to save the Danes from Grendel. In his battle with Grendel, Beowulf chooses not to use

weapons; he relies on his super strength. During the fight, Beowulf's strength takes over,

and Beowulf wrestles with Grendel until he is able to rip one of the monster's arms out of

the socket. Superhuman feats also appear in the fight with Grendel's mother. When

Beowulf enters the water, he swims, without the use of oxyg

the Christian beliefs of good verses evil. Grendel is referred to as a descendant of Cain,

both ultimately died in their final battle, they both were able to conquer the evil before

underworld, cut off from the company of other men. He stalks the people and terrorizes

Some common words found in the essay are:
Grendel Beowulf, Beside Christian, Christ Beowulf, Grendel Christ, Beowulf Grendel, Christianity Christian, Beowulf Christian, , Cain Satan, Danes Wiglaf, grendel's mother, dragon beowulf, battle dragon, poem beowulf, jealous happiness joy, happiness joy, jealous happiness, final battle, mother beowulf, descendant cain, grendel's mother beowulf, pagan influences,
Approximate Word count = 1162
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)