Observations placeholder
Beowulf - Treasure
Identifier
004869
Type of Spiritual Experience
Background
In Beowulf the dragon actually kills Beowulf, whilst Beowulf attempts to slay the dragon to stop it killing his people. Thus Beowulf’s motives are not the treasure, but the safety of his people. Despite the fact that his motives were honourable, he is killed, his faithful companion manages to kill the dragon. But the treasure is not taken or used by Beowulf’s people. In effect, this treasure – this accumulated wisdom and knowledge is not reused, it stays as an unexploited resource.
A description of the experience
Beowulf
Standing by him there were bowls and flagons
There were platters lying there, and precious swords
Quite rusted through, as they had rested there
A thousand winters in the womb of the earth
And this gold of former men was full of power
The huge inheritance, hedged about with a spell
No one among the men was permitted to touch
That golden store of rings unless God Himself
The true King of Victories, the Protector of mankind
Enabled one He chose to open the hoard
Whichever among men should seem meet to Him