Beowulf, England's national epic, passed down from generation to generation, tells the legend of a mighty hero. This popular epic depicts the ideas of Anglo-Saxon culture from the 16th century until the early 8th century, when a monk transcribed it into written form. Preserved in the British Museum, the manuscript is considered a historical document as well as a great literary work. This tale tells the story of a man who saves two nations from terrible beings who embody evil. Beowulf contains many themes such as the fantasy of supernatural creatures and the role of women. However, the main focus of this tale presents both Christian and pagan ideals. Although the epic shows evidence of patristic influences, it more clearly describes the ideals associated with pagan culture and society. Beowulf blends patristic references into a pagan narrative that previously focused solely on Anglo-Saxon ideals. For 12 years, King Hrothgar has suffered at the hands of the terrible monster Grendel, whom no man has managed to kill. However, when the powerful monster slayer Beowulf hears of Hrothgar's fate, he immediately sets out to put an end to Grendel. Shortly after receiving fervent greetings on the Danish coast, the men prepare for night and Beowulf realizes that "God, in his wisdom, must award victory as he sees fit" (43). Beowulf knows that he serves God, the one who solves all problems. The monks who altered history taught that the pagan god Wyrd does not exist but merely acts as an ability of God. By getting rid of the main pagan god, the monks show God's omnipotence and ability to control good and evil and decide right from wrong. All evil beings exist because they fought against God and lost; and for the rebel...... middle of paper......himself to do it. The heroic code states that the more glory a person gains in life, the greater and better life after death they will have. Beowulf and the dragon die together, and with his final words, Beowulf requests burial in a giant barrow so that his grave can guide the sailors of the sea. Beowulf also crowns Wiglaf, who will bring years of prosperity to the Geats. Although having patriastic elements, Beowulf is predominantly pagan, as evidenced by one of the final lines according to which "twelve chiefs, all sons of princes, walked around the mound lamenting their loss, speaking of their king, reciting a elegy and acclaiming the hero. » (101). The story of Beowulf teaches us much about ancient Anglo-Saxon times and pagan beliefs; not only is it a masterful work of literature, but also a manuscript that we will be able to appreciate forever in its historical and literary sense..