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BEOWULF

BEOWULF. Pagan poem with Christian elements Earliest documented literary work Composed during the 8 th Century (approximately 700 A.D.). BEOWULF. BEOWULF. Considered the beginning of English literature No information about this time is in written format

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BEOWULF

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  1. BEOWULF

  2. Pagan poem with Christian elements Earliest documented literary work Composed during the 8th Century (approximately 700 A.D.) BEOWULF

  3. BEOWULF • Considered the beginning of English literature • No information about this time is in written format • Focuses on the epic hero, BEOWULF, and the king he must save, Hrothgar • Written in Old English

  4. PAGANISM • Literal meaning of the word  “country dweller” • Pagans were NON–Christians • Originated from the stone age era • Believed that everything had a spirit, so people had Gods and Goddesses of the forest, sea, and all aspects of nature • Felt as though “life was temporary” – people did not know what would happen in the afterlife • Adhered to reincarnation but NOT in the existence of Heaven and Hell • Did not have one main religious text or set of beliefs to follow

  5. Spread of CHRISTIANITY • In 597 A.D. early Christians faced scorn and persecution from Pagans • Worshiped a single God • Believed in an afterlife (Heaven & Hell) • At first, Christians were forced to blend Christianity with existing Pagan counterparts • Christian authors incorporated Pagan ideals into their writing

  6. Epic Poems • Narrative poems that stress good vs. evil • Highlight superhuman feats of valor • General tone is somber • Kennings are prominent • figurative expression in place of a name or noun • battle = “storm of swords”

  7. Cultural Values • People did not read or write; history and culture were transmitted through poets – an oral tradition • Poets sang the poem, often with a harp • Sung from memory, changing details (oral tradition) • Became the “historian” of the tribe • Valued courage in the face of adversity • Remained loyal to leaders • Appreciated beauty in art, land, and the spoken word • Treasured the MEAD HALL

  8. GRENDEL • Monster who lived in swamps surrounding Hrothgar’s Herot (Mead Hall) • Terrorized Hrothgar and his men for 12 years • Alienated from society • Possessed both human and animal characteristics

  9. Name of the Mead Hall  HEROT Created by King Hrothgar to commemorate his victories in battle Symbolized peace, community, and loyalty to the king Valued festering pride, loud talk, and feats of strength Served mead (fermented liquor) MEAD HALL

  10. BEOWULF – the HERO • Pagan warrior • Sailed from Geatland (Sweden) to help Hrothgar defeat Grendel

  11. And so it begins…

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