2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Judith: The Thane of God

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Kim Carter-Cram

Abstract

For my research paper on the Old English poem of Judith, I want to slightly shift focus to the significance of her story within history through a comparison of different versions found within religious texts and bibles. The Old English poem specifically is written in the heroic style of the time, mirroring some of the themes and ideas found in texts of the same time, such as Beowulf. In comparing it to other narratives of the same story, I hope to explain how these differences reflect a change in values towards religion and femininity. These values become clear because of what certain versions of the story emphasize and what qualities are downplayed. Along with this, I want to better understand and explain the exclusion of Judith as a whole from the canon of many religions. In exploring popular perceptions of Judith throughout history, my desire is to provide a bigger picture of why Judith is an important figure in religion and literature, and the impact strong heroines such as Judith have on humanity.

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