betangelse

Betangelse is a term that appears in early Germanic literature, most notably in the Old English poem Beowulf. Its exact meaning is debated among scholars, but it generally refers to a type of supernatural being or demon. The word itself is thought to be derived from Proto-Germanic roots related to "evil" or "demon."

In Beowulf, betangelse are mentioned as adversaries of humanity, often associated with the lineage of Cain. They are described as malevolent spirits that inhabit desolate places and are hostile to the creatures of God. The precise nature of these entities is not clearly defined, leading to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest they are a generic term for evil spirits, while others propose they might be a specific class of demons.

The concept of betangelse reflects the worldview of early Germanic peoples, who often attributed unexplained misfortunes and evils to supernatural forces. Their presence in the poem underscores the struggle between good and evil, a central theme in Beowulf. The term's infrequent use and the lack of detailed description mean that its precise role and characteristics remain somewhat ambiguous, contributing to ongoing scholarly discussion.