Beowulf’s Predetermined Fate
In Beowulf, the term “fate” can be used represent a number of different
things. However, its most significant representation is when it is used to describe
events that have been preordained by God. In these instances, the subject’s
“fate” has been predetermined by the “will” of God. Despite every effort made by
the hero, he cannot avoid his fate, God's will.
There are three instances that I feel illustrate this point most vividly. They
occur before, during, and after Beowulf’s fight with the fire-breathing
dragon. These instances allow the reader to have a glimpse into what the
future holds for Beowulf. The poet does not simply supply the reader with
this insight without explanation; he shows how these events have been
predetermined by God to serve as Beowulf’s fate.
The period of time before Beowulf’s fight with the fire-breathing dragon
serves as an excellent starting point to the discussion of how fate can be
described as God’s will. The fifty years before Beowulf’s encounter with the firebreathing dragon were immensely prosperous for Geatland. However, this
prosperity is abruptly halted when a fire-breathing dragon wreaks havoc on
homes, halls, and land.