Editor's Choice
What supernatural and resurrection elements are present in Beowulf?
Quick answer:
The supernatural elements in "Beowulf" include the presence of monsters like Grendel, his mother, and a dragon, which drive the narrative. However, there is no literal resurrection; the closest concept is the symbolic rebirth of the Herot building and Beowulf's re-emergence from the sea after defeating Grendel's mother, which suggests a form of baptism or symbolic resurrection. Additionally, Beowulf uses a magical sword to defeat Grendel's mother.
The entire story of Beowulf is full of supernatural events. However, most of
these events are pagan in nature and Biblical events alluded to in the poem are
all from the Old Testament. Therefore, there is no real resurrection in
Beowulf. The only thing "reborn"or resurrected is a building, Herot. However,
some have suggested that in Beowulf's fight with Grendal's mother, the fact
that he has to go deep into the sea and then re-emerges victorious suggests
some kind of resurrection or baptism.
The supernatural elements are the major reasons for the events of the
story.Tthe three monsters, Grendal , his mother, and the third monster who
appears at the end of the story set up all the action for Beowulf. In addition,
during the battle with Grendal's mother, Beowulf spies a sword blessed with the
magic of giants and this helps him kill her. Finally, a fire breathing dragon
who is aroused by a slave who takes part of its treasure, leads to the last
heroic battle and death of both the dragon and Beowulf.
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