In the poem Beowulf, a variety of themes are present that have significance towards the meaning of the poem that help us understand Anglo-Saxon culture during that time period. Three concepts that have significance towards the meaning of the poem are heroism, loyalty, and good vs evil. These themes relate in some way and all play a role in the meaning and interpretation of this poem.
Throughout the poem Beowulf is faced with many battles and conflicts that he overcomes using his heroic abilities. According to Google a hero is defined as “a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities”. Beowulf was portrayed as a true hero throughout the poem by fighting in many battles and protecting other people. After Beowulf's death
…show more content…
When Beowulf defeated Grendel and his mother throughout the poem this showed that good will triumph over evil. After defeating Grendel's mother Beowulf says “However that wretched thing got little comfort, nor will he live much longer, the hateful harmer enfolded in sin, but agony has clasped him tight in its constraining clutches, in chains of baleful death. There he must await a greater doom, this creature spattered with evil—how the bright Measurer should choose to repay him.” (ll. 972b-79). Grendel was an “evil” monster because he was responsible for many deaths of innocent people and eating his victims while Beowulf was a “good” hero who prevailed in many battles showing his loyalty and heroic abilities. This quote also suggests Beowulf thought Grendel's mother was a “creature spattered with evil” and implied she awaited a greater doom. I believe the greater doom refers to the retributions Grendel's mother has to pay for all of the bad things she has done. Finally, the theme of good vs evil is unique in regards to Beowulf because it can be interpreted different within different cultures, religions, and