Read Chapter Six of the Gospel According to St. Matthew. Which of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values? Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
As you respond, be sure to adhere to the rubric. Also, don't forget to support and elaborate upon your argument. 'Yes' and 'no' are not sufficient answers. Lastly, do not integrate your personal beliefs either for or against religion (or the Anglo-Saxons, for that matter) into your response. This is not about what you have learned in church or an opportunity to profess; please base your arguments on the texts and your understanding of Old English history.
Please use the following version of Matthew, Chapter Six for your response:
King James Version: Matthew Chapter 6
1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound
3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Responses are due NLT Friday, August 31, by 11 am. No exceptions.
Jesus' commands would strip Beowulf of his image towards the people because they see him as an idol and they look as him as a god-like figure. In verse 13, it says "deliver us from evil for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever" which we can see that the people thought this of Beowulf and not of God. Jesus' words would make Christians sympathetic to the Anglo-Saxons because they are ignorant to the actions they are doing. they are idolizing someone besides God. To make it worst, they are being led in the wrong direction because they are ignorant to the proper way to reap the benefits they desire. because the actual way is to listen to the word of God but since they haven't had anyone to show them the right way, they are lost.
ReplyDeleteQuent -
Jesus would indeed condemN Beowulf because he is an idol to his people, and is worshipped as such. In verse 13 it states that "... Deliver us from evil: For God is the kingdom, and power, and glory." However to the Geats, Beowuld iS their Kingdom, power, and glory.However as it say in the text, the AS are heathens. This means that they are ignorant of God teachings. They haven't learned to have faith in God but they in man. So they're not accustomed to the true depth that is God.
I think that most of Matthew Chapter 6 is totally against everything it means to be Anglo Saxon. For instance, the chapter is basically saying that you shouldn’t boast. God knows what you are doing and he’s the only one who really matters. “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” You don’t have to go in front of everyone and say that you have too much money or you love God so much. Instead, you should pray in private and when you’re giving to charity, do it secretly instead of boasting about how much money you’re giving. Also, he says “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieve do not break through nor steal;” Jesus is basically saying that instead of being greedy and working on getting so many treasures on earth, you should instead work on doing good things in your life, even if people don’t know it, so that you can go to Heaven “where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.”
ReplyDeleteI didn’t find anything in this chapter that I thought would make the Christians sympathetic to the Anglo Saxons and their culture. As I said before, almost everything in this chapter is completely against all their ways of living. Anglo Saxons love to boast about everything and collect treasures and show off but Jesus is saying that you shouldn’t do this.
1. Jesus' commands in verses 1-4 would condemn Beowulf's acts of boasting among his fellow Anglo-Saxons. Beowulf decided to share his accomplishments and efforts of good deeds with everyone instead of keeping his charitable deeds to himself. In reality, no one is in favor of someone who brags about their achievements. It is better for someone else to talk about your good deeds instead of sharing them on your own. Jesus' commands would also condemn the over praising of Beowulf's accomplishments. Instead of informing all of the Danes with his intentions, Beowulf should've just fought Grendel without getting everyone's attention and returned to his homeland.
ReplyDelete2. Verses 19-21 might make a Christian audience seem sympathetic towards Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture because most of the Anglo-Saxons were focused on the treasures of the Earth instead of the things of God. Even though Beowulf did continuosly mention how it was God's choice for him to win, he probably did not realize how he seemed more focused on the things of the Earth. In his mind, he probably thought his actions were more of God. In reality, Beowulf was really focused on his image.
Cole,
ReplyDelete1. In verses 1-4 of Matthew chapter 6 Jesus tells about how a person shouldn't boast about the things that they have done, but instead do them in secret. Those who announce their deeds have earne their reward on Earth and wont have any in heaven. Beowulf directly breaks this commandment when he greets people with all of his accomplishments and good deeds. In Matthew 6:12 Jesus says to ask for forgiveness from God and to also ask for forgiveness from those who tressspass against us. Beowulf does not ever ask for forgiveness from anyone, instead he seeks revenge on them. Matthew 6:15 also condemns Beowulf, because it says that those who don't forgive others of their sins, won't be forgiven by the father in heaven. In Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus is talking about not storing up treasures on the Earth where time will destroy them, but store your treasures in heaven where they will last forever. With Beowulf's last dying breath he tells Wiglaf to return the gold and treasure to his people, this is exactly what Jesus is talking about.
2. In Matthew 6:32 it says "(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.", which is an example of the Lord's willingness to give to His people. A christian might feel sympathetic of the Anglosaxons because they are out searching and fighting for things that God would just give to them freely.
Read Chapter Six of the Gospel According to St. Matthew. Which of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values? Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
ReplyDelete1. Jesus would condemn Beowulf's actions because in verses 1-4 Matthew Chapter 6 its says that you should not boast for the recognition of men but to do actions for heaven. Another verse that condemns Beowulf is verse 12 that stats that you should forgive the people that do you wrong and to not strive for revenge against them. Beowulf does not ever forgive the people that do him or his land wrong and verse 14 states, that if you forgive your trespassers God will forgive you and your sins. Beowulf also hordes treasures and that is a sin against God because it says in line 19 that: " Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal". Beowulf tells Wiglaf when he is dying to go back and get the gold.
2. Christian audiences would feel sympathetic for Beowulf and the Anglo - Saxons because they do not understand what it means to be a christian. In verse 33- 34 it says to not worry about what will happen to you because God will give you what you need.
Read Chapter Six of the Gospel According to St. Matthew. Which of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values? Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
ReplyDelete1. Jesus would have punished Beowulf's actions because in Mathew chapter 6, verses 1-4, it says never to boast about the glories that have been brought upon you just for the recognition of others, but do do the great deeds of heaven. Beowulf would also be condemned because of verse 12, stating that you should forgive the people who have done wrong and do not strive out for the satisfaction of your own revenge. Beowulf also does not forgive those who have wronged him and his land, which verse 14 clearly states, that you must forgive your trespassers of their sins committed towards you in order for god to forgive you of yours. it is also known that Beowulf hordes treasures which is a sin against Christianity, which believes in sharing your wealth with those who are less fortunate than you. Beowulf, at his death, told Wiglaf to go back and get the gold and horde it all.
2.Christian believe that you should not worry about what will happen to you in the future but to live for today because God knows what you need and he will bless you with it.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteJesus’ commandments are clearly stated in Matthew 6: 1-34; however, there are a few that would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values. For example, Beowulf is a boastful warrior; it’s a characteristic of an Anglo- Saxon warrior; however, in Matthew 6:1 Jesus said, “Take heed that ye do not you alms before men, to be seen of them; otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.” This verse condemns Beowulf’s boosting, because of the praise he received from the people; he shouldn’t have spoken about the battle. This influenced the people to worship him; he was a hero in their eyes due to the defeat of Grendel. Furthermore, I struggle with boastfulness, because I am so proud of my accomplishments. However, in reality I should be more concerned with my pride issues; I am too a victim of boastfulness. I need to take into consideration the harsh consequences that follow my actions. Therefore, Beowulf needed to leave once the fight was over; he should have taken the opportunity to return to his homeland. Henceforth, due to his boasting, Beowulf couldn’t receive Jesus’ gracious reward; eternal life.
ReplyDeleteSecondly, Anglo- Saxons are all mighty and powerful warriors that took over during this era; therefore, anybody and everybody wanted to be an Anglo- Saxon. In Matthew 6: 24, Jesus’ commandments condemns Beowulf’s actions and values of an idol. An idol is something or someone who is greatly loved and cared for; for example, Beowulf and Hrothgar. The Dane’s people worshipped Beowulf, and Beowulf worshipped Hrothgar. The people were grateful that Beowulf saved their lives and Beowulf honored and respected the ruler, Hrothgar; both were being worshipped. However, in scripture Jesus’ commandments tells us not to serve two masters;” Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Therefore, Beowulf’s actions and values are condemned against Jesus’ commandments.
Lastly, a Christian audience might be sympathic towards Beowulf in the context of Jesus’ speech; for example, in Matthew 6: 30 Jesus said, “ Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith.” This scripture illustrates how the Anglo-Saxons had so much faith in the ruler, but weren’t taught the Christian ways; they were naïve. Furthermore, in Anglo-Saxon culture the people were submissive to this king. They would do anything in their power to please the ruler; therefore, in this sense I am sympathetic towards Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture.
While reading the Gospel, Matthew chapter 6, we can see where Jesus’ command’s condemns Beowulf actions and values. Many Anglo-Saxon values and beliefs go against Christianity and this can be seen after reading the Gospel and Beowulf. In Matthew chapter 6 of the Bible we can see of the bat in verses 1-4 that Jesus condemns those who take part in boasting. However, in the Anglo-Saxon tradition boasting was praised because everyone wanted to know one’s achievements. Beowulf was famous for his boasts telling about his awesome strength and all his accomplishes he had made during his life. Although this behavior is condemned because in verse 6:1 it states “Take heed that ye do not you alms before men, to be seen of them; otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven” this means that he shouldn’t brag about what he has done in his life just so that people will praise him. Also, Jesus commands condemn Beowulf’s actions and values when he is worshiping more than one God. In Matthew worshiping more than one is wrong and this is clearly stated in verse 6:24 “No man can serve two master: for either he will the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” In the book we can see that Beowulf worships the King of the Danes and the Danes and Geats people worship Beowulf and this is wrong, because you can’t worship God and someone else at the same time. In society today worshiping an idol is becoming far too common and this is actually what the Anglo-Saxons were doing. Personally I rather not talk about my own achievements to others; however, sometimes if I do something really good I talk about it but I know this is wrong. One’s achievements don’t have to be yelled to the world for everyone to know because the only one who really needs to know already does and He will reward those who deserve it in the end.
ReplyDeleteIn Matthew chapter 6 verse 32 it states “(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”Christians could be sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture because they felt as if they need to fight for everything they needed; however, if they just trust and look to God, He will give them everything they need and more. In the Anglo-Saxon culture they believed they had to seek everything they wanted and needed. Although in 6:32 it’s saying that the Father knows and has everything one needs and Anglo-Saxons just didn’t understand this.
1. Based on what we've in the story and Chapter 6 of Matthew, what actions of Beowulf might Jesus condemn? 2. Which of Jesus's teaching might convince Christians to pity Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons?
ReplyDelete1. - In verses 13, it states that God would help us defeat evil not lead us through the tempation of greed. When Beowulf's people attacked the dragon they weren't fighting an evil entity. Unlike Grendel and his mother, the dragon wasn't killing men for pleasure, but rather to protect the treasure it was entrusted with. The men's assault on the dragon came out of the tempation of greed. God didn't help Beowulf in his battle because Beowulf was corrupted by revenge. At the time Beowulf wasn't fighting to protect his men. He wanted to kill the dragon for slaughtering his people.
-Verse 24 The Bible teaches that loyalty to God always comes first. Now, we can look at verse 24 in two ways. Jesus would probably condemn Beowulf because his first loyalty is to his king not God; however, if we read the rest of the verse we can draw another conclusion. Verse 24 also says that man can't serve God and Mammon(supposely one of the seven princes of hell and the embodiment of greed.)By battling the dragon, Beowulf's actions were serving the greedness of his men.
- Verses 19-21 state that man should develop himself in the image God and not for the sake of treasures because he'll be concerned with obtaining. Beowulf may have been a generous individual, but when he asked his men to bury him along with the treasure, he defied the laws of God.
2. Verses 25 and 31 state that man should not be concerned with survival, and that there is more to life than trying to figure out how one is going to live to see another day. Anglo-Saxons charged into battle fearlessly without second thoughts of their actions. Beowulf never really considered how his actions would affect the future. Anglo-Saxons spent their time singing, drinking, and feasting. Because of this, I feel that Christians might be
more sympathetic about the demise of Beowulf and Anglo-Saxon culture.
In the beginning of the Matthew Chapter six it mentions, “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. This ties in with Beowulf because being an Anglo Saxon warrior he had to do what his Lord commanded and not what other men wanted him too. He also knew that if he didn’t do what he was told by his Lord then he wouldn’t receive his blessing of being the strong, dedicated, loyal, and royal person that he was. All those adjectives are like gifts from his Lord to be as heroic and a goddess of a kingdom. Beowulf also carried the belief of not meeting a certain quateria didn’t have to be acknowledged by man but by your Lord. An example of Christianity and his belief of that would be, “ But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.” Another quote that ties in with Beowulf and Jesus commands would be “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The meaning of this command would be how Grendel the Evil tries to overpower Beowulf (Good). This is a correlation to the significances of the Good vs. Evil. That quote was basically a lesson learned for Beowulf of how not to just let the devil come in and destroy your joy, because they simply didn’t give it to you. However, Jesus speech does gives would make a Christina audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxon culture because Jesus wants us to serve only one God because he was the one to die for us, when an Anglo Saxon can one God to but it can be anyone that’s above them which is subject to change.
ReplyDeleteBeowulf would be condemned for boasting. To jesus every body is the same, nobody should be greater than the next. His boasting makes people believe that Beowulf is better than most people, they worship him as if he was a god. the christians would be sypathetic because the deeds that he did was to help people when they needed it.
ReplyDeleteJesus would condemn Beowulf because in the 1-4 verse of Matthew 6,it states that a person shouldn’t boast about the good things a person do because it should come from the heart and Beowulf boasted about all the things he has done.(2)In Matthew 6:12,Jesus says that a person should ask forgiveness from God and people that trespass against that person, well Beowulf didn’t forgive the people that did harm to his people-- Matthew 6:15 would condemn him too.(3)In Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus says that you shouldn't store your treasure because where your treasure is, that where you heart is also, well Beowulf states before he dies to hide his treasure from everyone else.
ReplyDelete2. In Matthew 6:32 it states ("For after all these things do the Gentiles seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things", Christians might feel sympathetic of the Anglo Saxons because Christians know that they don’t have to fight for treasure like the Anglo Saxons because God would have it to the Anglo Saxons
In Matthew chapter 6 one of the commandments that would condemn Beowulf is the commandment that says no man can serve two masters which means that no one should worship and praise anyone other than God; but, Beowulf is being worshipped for the good things he does such as defeating Grendle and his mother. Another commandment that would condemn Beowulf is the commandment that says forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors which means to forgive people; however Beowulf does not forgive anyone because revenge is an Anglo-Saxon characteristic. Christians may feel sympathetic for Anglo-Saxons because they believed that God gave gifts and protection to them. For example when Beowulf is fighting Grendle he believes that his Lord will give him the will to defeat Grendle and he thanks the Lord after he wins against Grendle.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIn St. Matthew chapter 6, Jesus gives some commands that will condemn Beowulf actions and values. In the first four verses God is saying that we shouldn’t do things for other to praise us. These verses will condemn Beowulf because he will go around telling everyone about his accomplishments. Also verse 24 God says that we can’t not serve two masters; therefore, this will condemn him because he serve Hrothgar and Ecgtheow. The world culture will be condemned because they treated the Kings and the lords like Gods. They will die for them and that goes against God commands. The Christians might feel sympathy with the Anglo-Saxon culture because both cultures are always worrying for food, clothes and other things. God says that we shouldn’t be looking for them because he knows our needs and we should rely on him.(verses31-34)
ReplyDeleteWhich of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values?
ReplyDeleteChapter six of the Gospel according to Matthew gives us a few of Jesus’ commands. There are some commands that would commend Beowulf’s actions and values, but there are also some commands that condemn Beowulf’s actions and values. Some examples that condemn Beowulf’s actions and values are Matthew 6: 3-4 where He tells us that we should not boast, and we should do everything because our heart has the desire to and Matthew 6: 14-15 where He says to forgive our trespasses and that your heavenly Father will also forgive us. If we fail to forgive than our Father will as well. Beowulf does boast in this poem, and he also seeks vengeance against his trespassers. We see Beowulf showing off how much of a hero he has been on page 29 lines 415 through 426. These lines state that everyone supported his idea of helping Hrothgar because they all knew of his “awesome strength”. We see proof that Beowulf fulfills his boast on page 55 lines 824 through 832. On page 169 lines 2510 through 2515 we see his last boast. We see examples where he seeks revenge rather than leaving it to God on page 97 lines 1384-1385. In these lines Beowulf says, “Wise sire, do not grieve. It is always better to avenge dear one than to indulge in mourning.” Another example where Beowulf doesn’t leave the trespassers to God is when he fights the Dragon. He had a choice, but he decides to fight him anyway for the sake of his people. In real life some people don’t mean to boast, but sometimes it’s necessary to prove that we are good enough for the job. It’s a great way to show what you’re capable of. Also, sometimes evil is so hard on us that the only thing we have left to do is fight it off. We want the problems to end and instead of waiting we seek revenge to get rid of them once and for all.
Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
There are two parts in Jesus’ speech that might make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxon Culture. Due to the invasion of the Romans some Anglo Saxons were converted into Christians; however, they still had their own beliefs so they were bound to go with what they knew best. The two parts that might make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo- Saxon culture are Matthew 6: 19-20 that says that they should build up their treasures in heaven and not on earth and Matthew 6: 24 that says that they should only serve one master. Beowulf and his fellow Anglo Saxons are used to looking out for each other and collecting treasures. On page 69 lines 1019 through 1023 we see that Beowulf collects gifts for his victory against Grendel and on page 185 lines 2743 through 2751 Beowulf sends Wiglaf to attain the treasures he has won from the dragon. We deserve rewards if we are doing something good; if there weren’t any rewards then not many people would look forward to doing anything good. Moreover, they’re taught to be loyal to their king. They show us that they keep God in their mind, but they never ever leave their lord. Nowadays, that would be known as a ride or die relationship. They’re supposed to be with their lords till the very end. Wiglaf is a prime example of a loyal warrior. We see this on page 181 lines 2694 through 2701. Another example is when Beowulf goes to Hrothgar willing to help to return a favor the Danes had done for his father. We see this on page 27 lines 372 through 376. To Beowulf and his warriors gaining treasures and being loyal to their lord are the right things to do, and that’s what it means to be an Anglo Saxon. Christians might feel sympathy for them because they don't know any better and the Anglo Saxons have a lot more to do than to just leave things to God.
Which of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values?
ReplyDeleteThere are some of Jesus’ commands that would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values. In chapter six of the gospel according to Matthew, it states “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” (Mathew 6:24) and this can condemn Beowulf because he respects both the king of the Greats and the king of The Danes. However, since the word mammon is mention it could also mean that one cannot serve God and wealth. Consequently, Beowulf and Wiglaf had fought for the treasure that the dragon had; therefore, they both disobeyed Jesus’ command. Moreover, in verse 1-4, Jesus’ commands would condemn Beowulf’s actions because he undoubtedly brags about his accomplishments and his strength. He brags about his accomplishments when he first arrives at The Danes. He boasted about the swimming match he had with Brea when Unferth said a discordant comment. Another example of when he bragged about his accomplishments was when he returned home after the defeat with Grendel. However, in today’s world many individuals tend to brag about the things he/she accomplish in life. Personally, I have brag before about the accomplishments I have succeeded in early college, but I know that I shouldn’t because what matters is that God knows. Furthermore, Beowulf seeks out to fight Grendel who trespasses The Danes property, but neither Beowulf nor The Danes forgive Grendel. In addition, Beowulf do not regret killing Grendel and seems that he is actually proud of killing Grendel since it caused him to have a good reputation; therefore, he break Jesus’ command since it states “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Mathew 6:12).
Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
I believe that one of Jesus’ speeches would make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture mostly in Mathew 6:34 when is say, “Take therefore no thought for morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” The Christian audience might feel sympathy to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons because they do not worry about tomorrow, but not because they are not worried about what they are going to eat. The Anglo-Saxons mostly are not worry about being killed in a battle because their priority is to be loyal and to protect their king.
In chapter six verses 1-4 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.This is an example of Jesus command condeming Beowulf. It basically sums it all up that Beowulf had a little too much pride and was a little boastful of himself. Also the verse clearly states that if someone has accomplished something everyone you shouldn't brag to the whole world about it. God sees and he knows what you did, everyone else doesn't really need to know. Christians might feel sympathic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxon culture is an example in verses 31-34. The Anglo Saxons should've put their trust in God because he is the only one that can help you make it through, no one else. So in other words this verse is simply saying that if you're with God then there is no reason to worry about what tomorrow holds. On the other hand, the Anglo Saxons didn't know any better.
ReplyDeleteIn the Epic story of Beowulf there are many examples of Anglo-Sagian culture. The book displays many examples of what the A.S believed in and how they lived. For a Christian stand point many of these actions would be condemn by the commands of Jesus. For example, right after Beowulf passes away the people af his village began to worry about the growing theart of invasion and again when the theart of Grendal to Heorot, everyone was so concerned about how to defeat the beast. This is wrong when it comes christain beliefs because according to the commards one should not worry about tommorow because the future has already been decided by God. Another example of how the book goes against the beliefs of jesus is that A.S society was engrossed in matrieal things. In fact Beowulf's last words ,which were spoken to wilaf, was regarding the trasure that the dragon was watching over. The main reason for this probaly had something to do with not dying in vain and leaving something for his people. However, in Christanity they believe that one should not engross in physical things (such as gold) in stead they should do good deeds for others. A person that believed in jesus's command would advise that Beowulf not fight the dragon and stay alive to lead his people.
ReplyDeleteOn the otherhand, there were serval A.S chracteristics that christians would approve of . When Beowulf come to the aid of Heorot he comments many times how if he wins it will be the will of God and if he loses it will also be God's will. Obviously christains would approve of this. Also, Hrothgar is an exampler of a king and a good person. He put others before himself and has made the best decisions that will benefit his people. However, a christain would sympathesis with Beowulf ,when he was faced with the decsion to fight or let the dragon contunie to live and destoy his home, because no matter what choice he made more souls woul have lost thier lives.
1.) In the first four verses of Matthew Chapter six it states how one shouldn’t boast or brag about their victories or image. For Beowulf this would be the most condemning commandment because after all of his great victories he returned to tell his story and receive praise from the town’s people. Beowulf, being part of the Anglo-Saxon culture, would also be condemned for his love of earthly possessions which it clearly state in verse nineteen of Matthew chapter six to not become attached to "treasures upon earth". Most of the character traits that made Beowulf who he was would condemn him in the eyes of religion simply because of the culture and time period he lived in.
ReplyDelete2.) One verse that stands out the most for Beowulf in a religious aspect is verse thirty of Matthew chapter six. In this verse it states how having faith is an important trait. For Beowulf, as a king, his followers always had faith in him to do the right thing and make the right decisions when necessary. This shows how Anglo-Saxons placed a large amount of value on following and loyalty to their leader such as Beowulf. I believe that Christians would understand this action because of how Jesus made decisions that helped his followers. Another verse that stood out to me was Matthew 21 chapter 6. This verse talks about leaving your heart where your treasure is. For Beowulf his treasure was his kingdom and the people he protected. His loyalty always remained with his subjects and at times he knew when to follow and when to lead. Even at his last breath he still looks out for his subjects by telling Wiglaf to take the treasures back to his people. This last Christian act shows how Beowulf’s heart stayed with his people, which in his eyes where his treasure.
Out of all of the commands which ones condemn AS traditions and Beowulf actions? Most of chapter 6 goes against AS tradition meaning Jesus would condemn Beowulf for his actions. To begin Beowulf throughout the story boast about how strong and powerful he is and how he is unmatched by anybody ,chapter6 state that you shouldn't do good deeds to gain praise of men but out of your own will and God will reward you for it. AS tradition was based on having one king to look up to and to give all their faith and loyalty to, but were as in verse 24 there can only be one master causing a clash between AS tradition and Christian belief. Christians might feel sympathetic towards Beowulf because of one thing he always do before entering a battle which is to trust that God have his side and that god have already chosen his faith which is something that is mention in chapter6 verse 25 through 34 stating that God has already set a path for you and that your future is written in stone.
ReplyDeleteIn Matthew chapter 6, there were a couple of Jesus’s commands of which would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values; likewise, there we also parts of Jesus’s speech which the Christian audience may sympathize to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture. To begin, one of the condemning commands of Beowulf actions and values began in Matthew 6:2-4, “2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
ReplyDelete3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.”. In the Anglo-Saxon culture boasting and bragging about the good deeds the Anglo-Saxons had achieved was very common. The Anglo-Saxons would tell their entire town’s people, kings, and etc. about the doings the Saxon had just accomplished. After the charitable deed was done an Anglo-Saxon would be showered in treasures by their people and king. In Jesus’s commands this Anglo-Saxon value and action would be condemned for the reason that, one is not supposed to speak of their good deeds. In Jesus’s command one is to do charitable deeds, and receive their reward from the “father” in due time; not flaunt power and receive treasure from “man”. Due to Anglo-Saxons being uneducated on Christian ways and morals they to some degree followed, they believe it was possible to serve both their king (man), and God. Due to the next verse, Matthew 6:24, the previous belief of an Anglo-Saxon being able to serve two people would have lead condemnation. Matthew 6:24 states, “24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”. In Jesus’s command, there was to be only one man to be worshiped and praise, and that was God.
Meanwhile, there were some parts of Jesus’s speech, which the Christian audience may sympathize to Beowulf, and the Anglo Saxon culture, as stated earlier. In the Anglo-Saxon culture when all else failed, they looked to God for guidance and strength to travel on. The fact of the Anglo-Saxons faith in God to push forward in this midst of the unknown would make a Christian audience sympathetic to the Anglo- Saxon culture, the next verses Matthew 6: 31-34 display this, “31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”. A Christian audience may sympathize, for they too look for God when they are challenged with the unknown, and continue on their journey regardless.
Beowulf’s actions and values condemn many of Jesus’ commands such as Matthews 6:24( chapter six, verse one), which states “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon”. (You cannot serve God & Riches).Beowulf condemns or disobey the biblical verse 6:24 because right before his death he ordered Wiglaf to find the riches in the barrow. Beowulf’s “inner greed” for the treasures and his life style were shown in his last moments, which proves that he actually treasured the material world and what came along with it (fame, respect, and loyalty to a certain extent). Although Beowulf demonstrated actions & values that condemn Jesus’ commands, he also practiced a few of Jesus’ commands. For instance, one specific command Beowulf practice was (Matthews 6:25) “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will put on.” Bewoulf never really showed any sign of being worried. Beowulf may have faced life threating challenges (war with Grendel, Grendel’s mom, and the Dragon), however; he never let the reality of death scare him. Moreover, the fact that Beowulf stepped into battle with the mindset of an AS (Anglo-Saxon) warrior (wynd –fate “what happens, happens”), he always had a feeling that the Lord was always on his side. Lastly, I would like to say both biblical verses Matthew 6:24 and Matthew 6:25 tie into real life situations. For instance, many people in today’s world strive for the “better life” (riches, fame, higher education) – not realizing that the better life, in all actuality, consist of more material things and the love of them; whether they want to admit it or not. Matthews 6:24, ties into real life because worrying brings more value to a situation or thing than what it’s really worth. For example, name brand clothes shouldn’t be valued at the end of the day because whether their name brand or not, all clothes are made out of the same material and made to serve the same purpose. As Proved in Matthew 6:25, worrying of any type is basically pointless for the most part.
ReplyDeleteIn Chapter 6 the first verse says, “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.”(Verse 1) Jesus command of do deeds for Him and not for man is would condemn Beowulf’s actions and Anglo Saxon beliefs. Beowulf has a habit of bragging and that comes with his Anglo Saxon views of having much pride in what you do. “When you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret and your Father who sees you will reward you openly.”(Verses 3 and 4) With Beowulf, he doesn’t like doing his good deeds in secret he wants everyone to see what he does good along with his strength. This shows that he does this for himself and others rather than for the good of God and that it’s not really in his heart. He was get all the praise and didn’t mind it at all. Jesus speech of “no one can serve two masters”(Verse 24) might make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxon beliefs. For Beowulf this would be hard with his Anglo Saxon beliefs of being loyal to your king and doing what he wants and needs you to do. The Anglo Saxons will do anything for their master thinking that they can get them somewhere better. Beowulf got so much acknowledgements for his strength and ability to win all his fights that he just wanted to keep it going and maybe felt that he couldn’t help but to brag.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis chapter, states that if you perform a good deed you shouldn't do it for yourself nor man but, for God. Beowulf went to Denmark not because it was the right thing to do but because he knew how good of a fighter he was and he ewanted to make a name for himself elsewhere. However, Beowulf did acknowledge God a few times for his victories. This chapter also staes that you shouln't brag about what you have done for others because your actions should come from the heart but, when Beowulf arrived to Denmark he stated his name and his what he came to do as and his accomplishments before. As if, he was bragging and prasing in himself when verse 24 implies that you should only praise one God. In the end Beowulf, gave instructions to spread his treasures amongst the people in his village. Did he do it because it was Godly,no, he only did it because he wanted to be considered as a great leader and he didn't want to violate his social contract.
ReplyDeleteOne of Jesus’ commandments that would have condemned Beowulf’s actions and values would be his constant boasting and bragging of his good deeds and noble acts. Beowulf does do deeds out of nobility and loyalty; however, he is known to ‘sound a trumpet’. For example, before Beowulf fought Grendel’s mother he reminded the Danes of his deeds in defeating Grendel which was not necessary and condemning based on Matthew 6:2 of the bible. It states: “Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.” A real life example of condemning Jesus’ commandment would be loaning someone $5 out of courtesy and then telling everyone you did it. On the contrary, one of Jesus’ speeches that would make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture would be as listed in Matthew 6:25 & 6:28. The Anglo-Saxon’s were highly based on the animism and the details of life rather than materialism and worldly things. In addition, they didn’t focus so much on worrying about life and followed the concept of wynd. The Anglo-Saxons believed in just living and not worrying about bad outcomes. This is illustrated in the commandments as “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” in verse 25 and “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” in line 26. The Anglo-Saxon’s and Beowulf both had cultures that followed the Christian values and would be condemned by them.
ReplyDeleteIn the beginning of the story of Beowulf, we see both the Anglo-Saxon and Christianity point of view; however, as the story continues both religious views and values clash with one another. It can be said that the Anglo Saxons are Christians to a certain extent; meaning they pick and choose rules throughout the Bible that they want to follow in order to keep their culture alive, making them hypocrites. Although boasting is part of the Anglo- Saxon culture, Matthew 6:1 (New King James Version) states, “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven”. The verse is basically saying, don’t boast or tell about the things you are going to do just to hear praise from others. If you keep your good deeds to yourself, God will bless you openly. It is obvious that Beowulf does not follow this rule. Although Beowulf was able to follow through on the promises he made to the Shield’s, according to Christianity it is still not right to boast. All kings in Anglo Saxon society have always been looked up to as the peoples “lord”. Matthew 6:24 states, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon “. This verse means exactly what it says, you cannot serve two masters. In previous chapters of the Bible it says that God is a jealous and does not want any man or possession put before him. Although the Shield’s have a king, according to Christianity, they are not to look to or worship their king as they would God, their Heavenly Father. As it has been shown previous times throughout the story, many of the heroic warriors and leaders have shared how much they love and worship their king which they call their lord.
ReplyDeleteIt is said in previous Chapters of the Bible, in the book of Exodus, that we are not kill, steal, nor destroy. In Anglo Saxon society, this rule obviously does not apply. Before Beowulf came to the Shield Nation, many warriors and kings before him have had to fight. They have fought for the protection and well-being of their people. The kings and warriors have to mighty, strong, brave, and loyal because these are the standards kings to follow have to live up to in order to be a good king or loyal partner. For 12 years, the Shields were being tortured by Grendel, Hells’ demon and the Lord’s outcast. Because the history Beowulf’s father had with the Shields, he took it upon himself to go to the Shield Nation, with his warriors, and fight for them. He boasted about what he would do to Grendel, while continuing to boast about how strong and mighty he was. Sure enough, he did what he promised to the Shields and killed him. I do believe under certain circumstances, Christianity would be lenient with this type of killing. I say this because Beowulf didn’t fight and kill Grendel just because he was a strong warrior, he did it to protect the Shields and end the long years of torture. Christians, in my opinion, would also be very lenient and sympathetic towards is Beowulf’s boasting. Although boasting is against Christian law, Beowulf was able to keep his promise to the Shields, which may look good in the eyes of his Heavenly Father.
1. Chapter six of Mathew it shows that boasting is something that Jesus condemns. “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men.” In the book we see that Beowulf tells the people that he is a good fighter and tells about his many adventures. Matthew chapter 6 condemns Beowulf because he is boasting which isn’t a valuable Christian act. During the Anglo Saxon times many people believed in the phrase Imitatio Christi which means imitation of Christ. Imitating Christ was something very important to any Christian because it meant that you were following in the right footsteps. Many Anglo Saxons put their religion before anything else but Beowulf boasted a lot which showed his hypocrisy. Jesus would rather people keep their good deeds to themselves because this way you showed your true intentions , Beowulf does the complete opposite as if he were looking for a reward. Matthew chapter 6 opposes the tradition of Anglo Saxon, these people are showed that revenge and fighting is a good way to look good but Matthew chapter six condemns almost all Anglo Saxon values.
ReplyDelete2. In verse 24 of Matthew it says that “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon”. The Anglo Saxon culture did the opposite of this, the Anglo Saxon culture believed in honor respect and loyalty. Many people were devoted to following their ruler and this is not a Christian act. I found that a Christian might feel sympathetic towards the Anglo Saxons because they were putting their time and effort into tangible things and not in their belief in Christianity. The Anglo Saxons did not fully understand the concept of Christianity.
Read Chapter Six of the Gospel According to St. Matthew. Which of Jesus' commands would condemn Beowulf's actions and values? Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
ReplyDeleteThere are some of Jesus’ commands that would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values. In Chapter Six of St. Matthew verse 1-4 states 1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. 2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: 4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. i believe verses 1-5 means don't show off to other and don't tell what you are doing because God would reward you openly. Also, verse 5-14 means pray in privatly not out in the open and don't make a promise that you can't keep. Yet, Beowulf chose a different way to approach life. Beowulf boasted and bragged about he Godly gift before his battles between Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon. Yet, Beowulf wasn't hypocritical, he back up and prove that he could defeat his enemies.
Likewise, might any of Jesus' speech make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture?
Christians might feel sympathetic towards Beowulf and Anglo-Saxon's culture. For example, verses 19-21 states 19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. I believe this means do not idolize or put values on materialistic items, but the Anglo-Saxons are very materialistic society and this would cause many christians to feel sympathetic because the Anglo-Saxons didn't really know who that the God of the Heavens is the only God that the AS should worship yet they idolize humans and material things.
1. Jesus' commands in Matthew chapter 6 is basically saying that you shouldn’t boast. God knows what you are doing or thinking before you even do it. “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Their is no need to brag about what you did for people or how much you have done because just by doing or giving people realize what type of person you are. Beowulf decided to share his accomplishments and efforts of good deeds with everyone instead of keeping his charitable deeds to himself. It is better for other people to talk about your good deeds among themselves instead of you bragging about yourself. Jesus' commands condemn Beowulf because of his praising about his accomplishments.
ReplyDelete2. Two parts in Jesus’ speech might make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxon Culture. One part is Matthew 6: 19-20 that says that they should build up their treasures in heaven and not on earth and Matthew 6: 24 that says that they should only serve one master. Beowulf searched for treasure and although he sent wiglaf to get the treasure from the dragon's barrow, he told them to split it to the nation as a reward. They were also loyal to their king. Throughout the whole book they talk about God being by their side; however they never forget about their king. Wiglaf is an example of a loyal warrior because he stayed with Beowulf when he was dying while all the others ran away. This is sympathetic towards Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon culture because they get their own treasure and stay loyal to their King.
Some of Jesus’ commands would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values, but other commands would make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and his culture. To begin, Jesus’ commands in verse 1 would condemn Beowulf’s actions and values. Beowulf was the warrior that always boasted before he took part in a battle, and in verse 1 basically what Jesus is saying is if you try to please another human being just so you can be like, then you will get praise from him. Jesus’ commands in verse 13 would condemn Beowulf as well. Verse 13 states, “For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever,” which means that Beowulf and the Anglo Saxons would be condemned because they treat their kings as if they are God themselves. Verses 14 and 15 condemn Beowulf’s actions and values because Anglo Saxon culture is based around avenging a wrong that has been done, and verses 14 and 15 says that if a man forgives for that wrong him, God will forgive that man, but if he doesn’t then he isn’t forgiven for his wrongdoing. This can relate to real life because in today’s society there is always he said she said that leads to fights, whether they are physical or not. If one person feels that they have been disrespected then they are going to do something about it. Then a fight starts and continues with people of each person’s family.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, other commands would make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf and the Anglo Saxons. Verses 19-21 would make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf’s culture because Anglo Saxons never realized that material possessions wouldn’t also be around, but the love of God would. In the end material possessions would fail a warrior, which is evident when Beowulf fights Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and the dragon. Verses 5 and 6 would bring sympathy from a Christian audience because Jesus would see that when Beowulf boasts in front of everyone, instead of looking for God in secret, it shows that Beowulf strives for the approval of others. This relates to real life because many people are always trying to seek approval from their friends, but what they fail to realize is that everyone is different, and won’t always do things the same.
1. In the book of Matthew Chapter 6 verses 1-4 Jesus states that a person should not boast of the good deeds that they have done instead a person should do that in secret and he will reward you. Beowulf does the opposite and boasts to everyone know of all the good deeds that he has done. Also in Matthew Chapter 6 verse 14 Jesus states that if you forgive others for their sins your Father in heaven will also forgive you for your sins. Beowulf does not forgive Grendel or his mother for the sins that they have committed instead he seeks revenge.
ReplyDelete2. A lot of Jesus’ speeches in Matthew Chapter 6 will make Christians sympathize for the Anglo Saxon culture because they are doing the exact opposite of the word of God. They do not understand the meaning of being a “good Christian”.
Some of Jesus’ commands in Chapter Six of the Gospel According to St. Matthew condemn Beowulf’s actions and values and make a Christian audience sympathetic to Beowulf. For example, verse 19 “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal”, this verse warns people that they shouldn’t praise over treasures on earth so it condemns Beowulf’s and his friends lifestyle because, it consists of killing people and collecting treasure for their enjoyment. Verse 33,”But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”, condemns Beowulf’s actions because, in Beowulf’s culture their lord or king is who they live for not for God. On the contrary, some of the verses in chapter six of the book of Matthew, give Christians an excuse to be sympathetic towards Beowulf’s actions. For instance, verse 14 “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father will also forgive you”, gives Christians an reason to show Beowulf sympathy because, this verse suggest Christians should forgive people of their sins and in turn the Lord will forgive you for the sins you committed. Verse 15, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses”, also allows Christians to show Beowulf and his friends sympathy because, it instructs people to forgive people of their or god won’t forgive you of the sins you have done.
ReplyDelete1) The lines 6-12 condemn Beowulf’s actions and the Anglo-Saxon because in the Anglo-Saxon culture they revenged a person’s death rather than forgive that person, so that he or she is also forgiven. For instance, after Grendel’s death his mother came for vengeances upon Hrothger’s kingdom because Beowulf killed her son so the kingdom can live in peace. In today society, people still kill each other because someone killed or beat up a family member. Another section that condemns Beowulf is line 2, which means that when something is accomplished one should not brag or boost themselves to other. However Beowulf does boost himself throughout the book for instance when Beowulf brought back the head of Grendel and when he reminded the Danes of his victory. In this time, a person who brag about themselves will be looked down own because that person think that they is better than everybody else.
ReplyDelete2) On the other hand, the line 31 would make the Christian audience more sympathetic because it does describe how the Anglo-Saxon and Beowulf treated their people. The people of the kingdom didn’t have to worry about what they will eat and drink because what the king won in battle is shared with the kingdom, which easy the mind of the people. Just like the society today doesn’t want us, the people, to worry about how they are going to get their next meal because he will help and protect them. The lines 19-20 will also make the Christian audience more compassionate because they didn’t realized the resolution that material items will never uphold the power like God can. Every time Beowulf fought his items that he used, such as his sword failed him, but his strength that was given by god didn’t fail him. I think that Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons culture was caught in the middle of a fight between culture and religion.
Jesus says in verse 12, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Beowulf would be condemned by this command because it is a part of the Anglo-Saxon culture to take vengeance on those who did wrong. Jesus would have wanted them to forgive them for their wrong doings and let him take care of it. If one did not take vengeance, they would not be considered an Anglo-Saxon and their values would deplete. Another command that would condemn Beowulf is verse 24, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” The Anglo-Saxons in Beowulf’s kingdom looked to him as if he was a god. This is a sin in the eyes of the Lord because He is the one and only that people shall worship.
ReplyDeleteA Christian may be sympathetic to the Anglo-Saxon culture because they were just being introduced into Christianity and there was a lot that they did not know or understand. They did look up to their King as a god because without him, they would have nothing. They did not know that if they give all their faith into the Lord that all things were possible. A Christian would also be sympathetic because in Anglo-Saxon culture, if one did wrong unto another, vengeance must be given. This was their way of honoring the one fallen to another’s hand. Jesus wants us to forgive and let him take care of the problem.
Jesus would condemn Beowulf because of the commands not to boast(lines 1-4) and to not seek treasure that is not worthy in the kingdom of Christ(lines 19-24). In general, Anglo Saxons are not boasting in a sense of bragging but more like a statement of the actions they intend to take place. However, Anglo Saxons are worldly people who do desire treasure and fortune. In a Christian audience, people would most likely feel sympathetic for Beowulf and Anglo Saxons because of their un-Christian ideas of the world around them. I would know from personal experience that people that are in the church community would feel sympathetic towards anyone who doesn't live a Christian life.
ReplyDeleteBeowulf in my opinion did not meet the expectation of a christian, and should therefore be condemned for his sins. According to Mathew 6: 24, it states, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. you cannot serve God and mammon"
ReplyDeleteBeowulf allowed his followers to praise him as if he were God himself by calling him lord. This confusion mislead Beowulf presence, which caused him to commit this sin.The "Christians" in the story were probably ok with Beowulf's flaunts because he committed his actions in Gods name. Every victory by Beowulf was won because of Gods favor.This made the people rely on Beowulf as the human God. This to me is hypocritical towards the bible.
Mathew 6: 19-20 states, " Do not lay up yourselves treasure on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20) but la up yourselves treasure in heave, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal"
When Beowulf died, he asked wiglaf to give the treasure to his people as his last wish. this was a hypacritical because his treasure isn't on earth but in heaven with God," Mathew 6:21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be" This was also bad because he left his people with treasures but an opening for enemies to come in to take it from them.
The people thought of his actions as a heroic thing to do. His last deed on this earth was to give riches to his people because he loves his people.