From the beginning of the epic, it sounds as if the Lord's goodness is on some, but not on others. It was for Hrothgar that his city was in the wrong place at the wrong time because Grendel just happened upon it. But Hrothgar has true belief under extreme and terrible circumstances that God will heal all things.
On another note, Beowulf kind of reminds me of David. He was chosen for battle and is confident in his abilities as well as in God (line 670). He is described as a "prince of goodness" (676).
He just reminds me of King David because he is described to be like no other man, just as David was. Beowulf is strong and an admirable leader.
Lines 754-756
These lines just exemplify how the devil creeps away from fear. Grendel always thought he was the strongest creature, but then he met his match and that frightened him. All he wanted to do was run and hide with his other demonic buddies. I think this just goes to show that when we fight the devil with Jesus on our side, like Beowulf does because he believes that God has a divine plan over this, that we can conquer anything.
I commented on Nate's and Daniel's!!!
Now that you've pointed it out, Beowulf does parallel David. I'd say the only difference though is Beowulf practically volunteered from the beginning in order to attain glory. Aside from that, however, the fact that David and Beowulf conquered a great evil and prevented a kingdom from falling is spot on.
ReplyDeleteI was also enthralled by the battle scene that was depicted. Like you said, Grendel always believed he was the strongest creature alive and that none could fell him...until Beowulf appears. Beowulf is the sense of overwhelming force and power, and is Grendel is to represent sin and death, then Beowulf representing the strength of God over them is very poetic.
I feel it sometimes helps to see these characters personify biblical figures when we read, so we can use outside sources to gain a better understanding. He definitely does show King David's attributes, even the parts of David that were prideful and a little arrogant. Yet he still attempts to use his might and strength for good.
ReplyDeleteThat is an interesting observation in relating him to David! How can this affect the story? What is the significance of this? I appreciate your connection to the devil and Grendel - it is encouraging and cool to see that parallel as well. Beowulf seems to be a multi-dimensional story.
ReplyDeleteIn the old testament it is pointed out that God has favor on certain tribes and then certain cities because they abid by His will and the others that are not in His favor He lets them be attacked by the favored ones. It is contrary to the beleif that we are all God's children but I agree with the fact that God can heal and restore all relationships.
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