Different events through the motif of light reinforce the idea that one cannot win when alone. In the beginning of Beowulf’s battle with Grendel’s mother, he fights inadequately. God is often associated with light and when Beowulf’s sword is referred to as “a battle-torch [being] extinguished.” (l 1524). The reference to light being turned to darkness signifies God not being present at that moment in the situation. The lack of God’s presence is the reason that his sword, even with “fabulous powers,” and a previously earned reputation of glory (l 1528), failed Beowulf in battle. When he was left in darkness, his battle got progressively worse: “the sure-footed fighter felt daunted, / the strongest of warriors stumbled and fell.” (l 1543-1544).…show more content… This moment in the text is the sudden change that explains the shift in the course of action of the battle. There is significance in the new sword itself, because of its ancestry and build: “only Beowulf could wield it in a battle.” (l 1562). The implication that the specificity of the type of sword and qualifications to use it makes is that it was put there specifically for Beowulf’s use. If no other human could use such a sword, it had to have been placed in Grendel’s mother’s lair by a divine power. When Beowulf is successful with the new sword in killing Grendel’s mother, the motif of light reappears, “A light appeared and the place brightened / the way the sky does when heaven’s candle / is shining clearly.” (l 1570-1572). This highlights the significance between the new sword being found and the newfound light. Beowulf’s success comes only after he gains confidence from the sword and is certain in his destiny. The light comes only after he finds the new sword and uses it to fulfill his predetermined destiny. The new sword suggests God’s presence, because it brings light and certainty back to
