I want to start off by saying that Beowulf is a simple poem. I don't understand the mass hysteria in the literary community about over analyzing it. Not once while I was reading it did I marvel at the so-called parallels between Beowulf and Christ nor the perfect representation of a Christian Anglo-Saxon world. I just thought that the poem was about a self absorbed man who thought he was indestructible, but in the end he was conquered by death just like all humans. This is why I agree with Martin Camargo's assertion that "Beowulf, an 'exemplary pagan,' falls as far short of the Christian ideal as Grendel falls short of Beowulf ." I agree that Beowulf is an extraordinary pagan, risking his life to protect the lives of entire villages, those that aren't even in his homeland. Riches, weapons and fame are a reward for his heroic actions, and all of this goes to his head. Beowulf develops the notion that he is an immortal War-God, this places him far from the Christian ideal. Not once does he give thanks to a God for helping him to defeat some monster, he gladly takes all of the credit. Beowulf thinks he can retain his strength and youth forever, but time remains true and takes a toll on his body. Around the age of 70, Beowulf is defeated by the Dragon, and is proved to be nothing but a mere mortal.
I also agreed with Marion L. Huffines argument that "in his three fights, Beowulf becomes more monster-like, the monsters less clearly evil." Tis very true. In the first fight all readers side with Beowulf. He is the knight in shining armor, while Grendel is the evil beast who has been terrorizing the village. Grendel trespasses into the Hall, and Beowulf defends, rightfully so. The next battle occurs between Grendels mom and her son's "killer"(even though at that point he had only ripped off Grendel's arm). Grendels mom has revenge in her mind and therefore has a reason to boil her blood. Even though she starts by sneaking into the Hall and killing a few men, Beowulf retaliates by attacking in her home. Beowulf is more vicious this time as he slays Grendel and his mother. Beowulf even boasts his kill by decapitating Grendel's head and bringing it back as a trophy. In all of the battles, the "monster" is defeated and the third battle is no different; Beowulf and the Dragon are both claimed. "It was wrong to treat the dragon as a symbol of evil..." says T. M. Gang, and I agree, especially after reading Grendel, and observing the Dragon's wisdom. Beowulf enters the third battle with no true grievance against the Dragon. The Dragon portrays no real signs of said "monster"...yes I understand he is a large reptile that expels flames, but only when provoked. A man came into his lair, uninvited, and stole a cup. How rude. This made the Dragon was very angry and he proceeded to scorch the land with his fiery rage. Beowulf further angers the Dragon by storming into his cave and attacking him. In combination with his age and monster-like disposition, Beowulf, like all monsters, is claimed by death in the end.
