In medieval Europe, the image of strength was equally as important as the ability to act on that image. Enduring kingdoms were capable of subduing others, both through intimidation and in battle. In Beowulf, violence is a key part of maintaining society’s stability. The hero, Beowulf, is the epitome of the physically imposing, battle-triumphant warrior that is highly idealized in medieval culture. Just as a sound king indicates a sound kingdom, Beowulf’s presence increases the power of Hrothgar’s rule; individuals such as Beowulf and Hrothgar rely on violence to better their reputations, equating to a rise in the prestige of their kingdoms. Beowulf’s conflicts with Grendel and Grendel’s mother represent the constant struggle for medieval entities
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As Beowulf was most likely copied down in its current form by a literate Christian between the eighth and eleventh centuries, such themes of glory and violence may seem out of place with a modern view of religion in mind; however, the aggressive, expansive nature of Christianity seen in physical conflicts like the Crusades and through political control of western European kingdoms shows that during this time stability was driven by the establishment and upkeep of violence-induced power imbalances. In instances like the Investiture Controversy, popes and Holy Roman emperors fought for dominance over the actions of European kingdoms; these conflicts often became increasingly strained, with kings losing the backing of the Church and with it much of their realm. In Beowulf, religion wholeheartedly supports the actions of kingdoms securing their place, going as far as to state that “God [exalts] … the joys of strength and force” (1716-17). God is also present in the epic poem as a form of Wyrd, a conception of fate, granting victory and defeat as seen fit. With the violent element of medieval conflicts supported by religious institutions that routinely act as a binding force in society, it is evident that bloodshed and fighting was deeply engrained in all aspects of the culture of the
As Beowulf was most likely copied down in its current form by a literate Christian between the eighth and eleventh centuries, such themes of glory and violence may seem out of place with a modern view of religion in mind; however, the aggressive, expansive nature of Christianity seen in physical conflicts like the Crusades and through political control of western European kingdoms shows that during this time stability was driven by the establishment and upkeep of violence-induced power imbalances. In instances like the Investiture Controversy, popes and Holy Roman emperors fought for dominance over the actions of European kingdoms; these conflicts often became increasingly strained, with kings losing the backing of the Church and with it much of their realm. In Beowulf, religion wholeheartedly supports the actions of kingdoms securing their place, going as far as to state that “God [exalts] … the joys of strength and force” (1716-17). God is also present in the epic poem as a form of Wyrd, a conception of fate, granting victory and defeat as seen fit. With the violent element of medieval conflicts supported by religious institutions that routinely act as a binding force in society, it is evident that bloodshed and fighting was deeply engrained in all aspects of the culture of the