Grendel And Beowulf Comparison Essay

In about the 10th century AD, a mixture of Norse and Danish events that had been passed down through oral tradition were written down by a group of Monks. The events that were written down had taken place back in the 6th century AD, and they were eventually composed in the 8th century AD. Some of these stories later became known as Beowulf, a folk epic that is centered around an epic hero named Beowulf, who encounters and conquers an evil monster known as Grendel. John Gardner later decided to write a novel from Grendel’s point of view, providing background information about his early life and giving clues as to why he became the evil creature we encountered in Beowulf. Beowulf and Grendel have quite a few differences and similarities, but deep down they both have a good heart. Beowulf is an exceptional example of strength, courage or honor, and loyalty, which are the three pillars of the hero’s code. Through his strength he was able to accomplish many achievements during his life time, one of which included defeating Grendel. When facing Grendel for the first time, after no one else had succeeded in defeating him, Beowulf was extremely courageous and

He grew up with a mother and father who taught him how to behave, and instilled in him the importance of the hero’s code. When fighting Grendel, Beowulf refuses to use his sword so he tells Hrothgar, “I have heard, too, that the monster’s scorn of men is so great that he needs no weapons and fears none. Nor will I. My lord Higlac might think less of me is I let my sword go where my feet where afraid to, if I hid behind some broad linden shield: my hands alone shall fight for me…” (Raffel 261-268). Beowulf follows the strict code of revenge, understands that honor is above all, stays loyal to his kinsmen and comrades, and recognizes that life is an ongoing struggle between good and