Because Hrothgar and his ancestors are noble men, Hrothgar’s throne is protected by God. Hrothgar's ancestors have proven their nobility and heroism through their quest for peace in a conflicted world. For example, Hrothgar builds Herot to create a community and as a representation of peace. Hrothgar’s demonstration of pure religious virtues is reason for God to bless his throne. Grendel doesn’t know God’s love and does not dare to touch the throne (Beowulf 28). This is symbolic of the theme that evil will never overcome good. Grendel, despite his vicious powers, is unable to touch God. Thus, the symbol of a sacred throne delivers the comforting message that the evils found in this poem, and in the world, can never successfully “touch” the power and purity of what is good, or overcome the will of God.
Beowulf defeats Grendel because he is an embodiment of good. When the leaders first attempt to combat Grendel, they seek the aid of the devil and pagan gods. They are unenlightened and unable to recognize that fighting evil with evil is futile. Not until the arrival of one who will “rise to God (Beowulf 187),” Beowulf, do the noble men of Herot find any solace. Prior to his battle with Grendel, Beowulf announces, “God must decide who will be given to death’s cold grip” (Beowulf 440-1). Beowulf’s unfaltering faith in God’s ultimate decision, his willingness to sacrifice his life in the course of fighting for the noble kingdom of Hrothgar, and his disregard of fear are admirable aspects. The words of the bible speak to the benefits of faith and sacrifice, and psalms encourage followers, “be not afraid, I go before you always.” Assuredly, Beowulf acts as an arm of God in defeating Grendel and all the evil and destruction that he symbolizes. Beowulf, protected by God and motivated by faith and honor, succeeds in defeating the forces of evil.
The battle between Grendel’s mother and Beowulf proves a greater challenge because Grendel’s mother’s motivations are more acceptable. While religion does not promote revenge, it does establish that family and loyalty are valuable. Grendel’s mother only takes the life of a soldier because she seeks to avenge the murder of her son. Thus, in the battle between Grendel’s mother and Beowulf, the struggle is intensified by the motivations driving the contenders. Ultimately Beowulf prevails revealing that his valor and courage can overcome the powers of a beast. While Grendel’s mothers motive for murdering a soldier was understandable she was still no match for the pure and fearless Beowulf.
Throughout the poem, the morals and values that religion enforces exemplifies what is good and tolerable. Those that posses these admirable qualities triumph over evil forces. Thus, in this poem religion helps to define those “good” elements that eventually overcome evil.
