Beowulf’s story is somewhat of an allegory in which he is depicted as the Christ figure. The theme of Beowulf is a contrast of good and evil which is manifest in both Christian and pagan elements; Beowulf represents good, while Grendel, his mother, and the dragon represent evil. The first monster our hero, Beowulf, faces is Grendel. Grendel is said to be a descendant of Cain. “Unhappy creature (Grendel), he lived for a time …showed first 75 words of 516 total…

…showed last 75 words of 516 total…there are many references to Cain, the devil, and God (Christian elements) there are also several mentions of fate and destiny, pagan elements. Beowulf believes in predestination and feels that destiny is mortally unchangeable, saying, “Fate always goes as it must” (33). This idea propels him into many battles even though the competition seems overwhelming. Yet, in apparent disregard for fate and destiny, Beowulf prays to God for help and thanks God for victory and protection.