Beowulf Essay: The Three Brutal Beasts

Beowulf: The Three Brutal Beasts The story of Beowulf has been featured through numerous translations from the original language of Anglo-Saxon, or most commonly referred to as Old English. Originally composed in 1,000AD, Beowulf has been transformed into multiple forms of updated, current English translations including the Seamus Heaney translation. The story, however, does not change through these translations and still reveal the epic poem which Beowulf beholds. Also the name of the main character, this piece of literature holds some of the most peculiar monster or villainous creatures which Beowulf must fight to gain his honor or simply make an enemy perish for its harsh actions towards the people of the land. Events such as the cause of the attacks may be similar for some creatures while in other causes might contrast in the abilities of the

A creature that is guided by human emotions and outcasted of the city of Heorot, Grendel serves to be the symbol of all evil in the world. The monster, taking on a human-like shape, creeps towards Hrothgar’s mead hall and slaughters the sleeping men which are his most common victims for the last 12 years, as noted from the text of Beowulf translated by Seamus Heaney (Line 147). Almost like an animal warding off unwanted visitors in its territory, Grendel, the demon descended from Cain, attacks the city of Heorot methodically instead of through pure outrage and anger, hinting that there is a purpose for his mischievous and cruel acts against the Danes. Beowulf, after hearing the rumors of Grendel’s attacks on King Hrothgar’s kingdom, decided to help out with the situation by sailing to Herot with 14 of Beowulf’s most bravest warriors and to take down the beast. He also owes King Hrothgar for helping out his father in the past and is eager to repay his debt. With Beowulf’s men suiting up for the fight, Beowulf plans to fight