When I first read Beowulf's battle with the dragon I was struck at how different this evil seemed to be compared to Grendel and his mother. Where Grendel is described as the root of all evil in every aspect non-redeemable, the dragon appears less monstrous in intention comparatively. Grendel kills to kill and has no other apparent reason, the dragon is guardian whose wrath has been righteously disturbed. In fact, I'm sure the dragon feels justified in burninating the countryside even if the Geats don't see it that way.
As a result of this simple righteousness, from the moment the dragon is introduced to Beowulf the outcome appears to be decidedly not in Beowulf's favor. In past battles Beowulf has felt assured of his dominance. Against Grendel, the evilest of the evil, his victory was assured as the righteous avenger. In progression with Grendel's mother we see that assurance of victory begin to fade. He has a hard time dealing with her in this battle and barely manages to succeed. Just as we were assured of his victory against Grendel we knew he would have a difficult time against the mother who was avenging her son. Beowulf acknowledges this fact when he instructs his party on what to do if he does not return; he understands he is in for a tough battle.
In preparation for the battle with the dragon, Beowulf suits up. He says, "I will forego boasting against this flying foe" (2528). He's in his best armor and he is ready for what could be the final battle of his life. The poet has already forewarned that Beowulf will die by iterating this is the last time he will prepare for battle. Beowulf almost recognizes this doom as he sets off spouting words of how everyman is led by fate. He believes everything will be as it will be invoking the wyrd. It seems to have come full circle since the dragon is a guardian a righteous being and he guards the final door to the greatest treasure for Beowulf. It is a cursed treasure that is eventually buried with him. But one thing is for certain, it was Beowulf's destiny to end there: "that fate was too great/which impelled the king of our people thither" (3085-86). In the end it seems that everything in this story comes down to whether the characters of this story believe that something will happen. Beowulf believes and is believed to be able to slay Grendel and his mother, he does so. He is at that point "victory-blessed man" (1311). Then Beowulf believes there is a possibility he will die, he does. Beowulf's conscious belief in either his immortality or mortality proves to be a crucial point in deciding fate.
EDIT: by request, I have added a link to the Trogdor video from which "burninating the countryside" is derived. In addition here is the site from which the original video and other gems like it may be found: Homestar Runner where the infamous Strongbad lives!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
It's interesting that you point out the dragon is less monstrous in intention. If the degree in monstrousness is intention, how does Beowulf match up? In the fight with Grendel and Grendel's mother, his intentions are to protect Heorot, as opposed to his intent to gain material possession in fighting the dragon.
Despite being physically awe-inspiring, perhaps Beowulf's motivations, protecting Heorot/his hearth-companions and amassing material wealth for his kin, are what elicits the controversial characterization as “the mildest of men and the most gentle, / the kindest to his folk and the most eager for fame” (3181-3182). The four half lines apply mainly to intentions rather than his monstrous physique, making them a more accurate characterization. Just as the dragon’s monstrousness is lessened by its righteous intent, Beowulf is humanized by his desire to protect.
Post a Comment