Fate versus free will has always been a controversial question among society. In Beowulf this question is often asked, not literally but metaphorically. Fate is often the winner in most cases as shown in Beowulf. In the story there are many examples the prove fate plays a large role in our lives and that there is little to no free will. Beowulf proves the it is fate that makes him a legend, he takes on countless of creatures because he knows fate is on his side. An example of this is when Beowulf decided to fight Grendel, he choose not to take any weapons and let fate decide his future, whether he died or the beast did(lines 170- 177). Later Grendel is killed by Beowulf, as it was pre-determined by fate. Fate is often referred to as "the will of God" which is why Grendel could not have won against Beowulf for he is cursed due to being part of Cains bloodline. The death of Grendel wasn't the only example of fate overpowering free will, Beowulf also show how fate decided the winner of the battle between Beowulf and the mighty dragon. The battle with the dragon would be Beowulf's last, he was also aware of the fact that fate was no longer on his side since his shield and weapon failed him(lines 720-730). In the end Beowulf was able to defeat the mighty dragon but only with the help of Wiglaf. Even though Beowulf and Wiglaf were able to obtain victory, Beowulf suffered a fatal wound. Beowulf spoke his last words to Wiglaf and told him that it was fate, it was his time to go, and what he wanted Wiglaf to do(lines 803-824). And in the end Beowulf will be remembered for his great victories and braveness that made him a wonderful king. Fate isn't just in stories, but also in real life. Many aspects of our lives have already been determined and we experience them everyday. Although you can argue that we are the ones that decide therefor free will is correct instead of fate, fate is still the main factor in our lives and is what drives most people, it is what fuels us in our journey that we call life.
Written By:Arnold Casas
Written By:Arnold Casas