Beowulf
...ind first. During Beowulf’s struggles in battle, we also see his values in the battle itself, the glory and honor that the life of a warrior brings. Beowulf finds much of his identity in his physical strength and his success as a warrior. When facing Grendel’s mother, Beowulf finds that he must rely solely on his might. Based on his values, Beowulf is accepting of this: “So must a man do / who intends to gain enduring glory / in a combat. Life doesn’t cost him a thought” (1534-1536). These acts that Beowulf completes not only bring him glory, fame and power as an eventual ruler, but also bring him personal glory. Beowulf is valued as a warrior. After defeating Grendel’s mother, his virtues are extolled in the great hall of Hygelac. Long disregarded by his own people, Beowulf finally receives praise. Thus Beowulf bore himself with valour; he was formidable in battle yet behaved with honour and took no advantage; never cut down a comrade who was drunk, kept his temper and, warrior that he was, watched and controlled […] his outstanding natural powers. He had been poorly regarded for a long time, was taken by the Geats for less than he was worth; and their lord too had never much esteemed him in the mead-hall. They firmly believed that he lacked force, that the prince was a weakling; but presently every affront to his deserving was reversed. (2177-2189) Beowulf revels in this glory. He values the code by which he lives. We see many examples of the heroic code throughout this poem. Another value that is present in the poem is the reoccurring theme of Christian vs. pagan values. The Christian values contradict much of the heroic code, yet remain a large part of Beowulf’s character. Throughout the text, Beowulf places value in the belief of a spiritual being, a Christ-like God that he derives much of his strength and blessings from. He refers often to this God and to this God’s works. In times of battle, he evokes his name: “Whichever one death fells / must deem it a just judgement by God” (440-441), “And may the Divine Lord / in His wisdom grant the glory of victory / to whichever side He sees fit: (685-687). However, Beowulf does not let his religious value overshadow the value of the heroic code. There are several examples of this. Christianity advocates forgiveness, while the warrior attitude is revenge and retaliation, an attitude shared by Beowulf: “Wise sir, do not grieve. It is always better / to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning.” (1384-1385). A Christian life promises glory in the afterlife, and the warrior gains glory from deeds performed during life. Beowulf tells Hrothgar this: “Let whoever can / win glory before death. When a warrior is gone, / that will be his best and only...