Beowulf: good vs evil in Beowulf | contrast between good and evil in Beowulf | Overview & Depiction | Learning The Easy Way

 

Contrast between good and evil in Beowulf: 

Beowulf was the great Anglo-Saxon epic. It was composed around the year 700. It presented to the readers with a glimpse into the life of Anglo - Saxons. It was translated by Burton Raffel. The tone of the epic is unpleasant.  It was related only the achievements of the hero Beowulf. This epic poem displays many contrast between good and evil.

There are many characters in this poem. Some characters are good and some are evil. The characters of Beowulf, king Hrothgar, Wiglaf, and their actions are represented goodness throughout the poem.

Beowulf is the major character of this epic. He has a lot of good qualities. It is the ultimate example of a hero. His acts of goodness are shown through his efforts to free king Hrothgar hall from the wrath of Grendel, Grendel mother and finally an evil dragon.

King Hrothgar is another good major character. His love for his people and overall goodness is shown at the welcoming of Beowulf into his kingdom.

Wiglaf was a Great warrior and one of Beowulf chosen band. He is portrayed as good because of his decision to risk his life for Beowulf. In the final battle, all Beowulf's chosen band of Geats left him but Wiglaf does not. Because he like to help his great king. 

In contrast, the characters of Grendel, Grendel mother, and the dragon, represent evil throughout the poem.    

Grendel is the main representation of evil in this epic poem. He is a man eating monster who haunted the halls of Heorot for twelve years. 

Grendel mother attacks Heorot out of grief for her son. Beowulf was called upon again to free Heorot from the evilness of Grendel mother. 

The dragon was up roared by a common thief who stole a cup from his fortune. He in return haunted Beowulf people. Beowulf fought his last battle with the dragon.

The epic poem Beowulf encloses all aspects of a great tale Beowulf, king. Hrothgar, and Wiglaf represent good in the poem whereas, Grendel, his mother, and the dragon portray the contrasting side of evil. Throughout the epic poem Beowulf one encounters many instances o good versus evil.

Related Posts: