Grendel Characterization Essay

Who is the Real Grendel? Things are not always as they see; the first appearance deceives many. (Phaedrus) This quote applies directly to mans perception of Grendel in Beowulf as translated by Burton Raffel. The true trycase of Grendel is revealed in Grendel by John Gardener. These two works show Grendel as a bloodthirsty monster that murders warriors within force Hrothgars hall. Grendel is characterized in very different ways in these two depictions. They agree that Grendel led an angry unhappy life, he is a descendent of Cain and he is gleeful during his final firing. Their differences involve: the way Grendel felt about the conflict, his motives for killing the warriors and whether he was a merciless monster. Beowulf and Grendel agree on a few disclose elements of Grendels character. Grendel led an unhappy life. He journeyed forever joyless. (line 402) Grendel continues on his murderous path without happiness. I hold conversation with the still friend and comfort this world affords, my shadow. (Gardener 3) Grendel has no friends to confer with and so relies on himself for comfort. These lines show the loneliness and unhappiness that color Grendels life. Another common thread between the two depictions is the accompaniment that Grendel is of the race of Cain.

He was, Conceived by a pair of those monsters born(p) Of Cain, murderous creatures banished By God, punished forever. (lines 19-22) Grendel is the descendant of the first murderer and this idea is also reflected in Grendel. I, Grendel, was the dark side… the foul race God cursed. (Gardener 43)The last main trait that is overlap by both of these texts is that Grendel is gleeful during his last attack. Hes found no fighting here, but further food, only delight. (lines 330-331) Grendel has never faced resistance before his final attack and delights in returning to the hall night after night. I am swollen with excitement, bloodlust and joy … that mingle in my knocker like the twisting rage of a... If you want to get a full essay, order it on our website: Ordercustompaper.com

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