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"Grendel" and "Beowulf", 2002.
Compares and contrasts the main characters and themes in the epic poem "Beowulf" and the novel "Grendel".
869 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
Examines the two different interpretations, found in "Beowulf" and "Grendel", of man killing a beast, looks at the causes of the conflict in each story, discusses whether the two main characters in each story receive what they want, and explains what it is each of the main characters is actually looking for.
From the Paper
"Gardner?s Grendel contradicts Beowulf?s belief that killing Grendel is the right thing to do. Grendel ?understood that the world was nothing: a mechanical chaos of casual, brute enmity on which we stupidly impose our hopes and fears. All the rest, I saw is merely what pushes me, or what I push against, blindly-as blindly all that is not myself pushes back? (Gardner 21). Grendel has logic as opposed to his brute counterpart in Beowulf. He logically explains that world has no point or meaning, as he states, ?The mountains are what I define them as? (Gardner 28). Gardner portrays Grendel as logical and gives Beowulf as well as the rest of the people an identity and a philosophy. By killing the people of Denmark, Grendel demonstrates that life is short."
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Beowulf and Grendel, 2005.
This paper examines the classic Scandinavian epic about the characters Beowulf and Grendel.
2,475 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 4 sources, $ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Beowulf and Grendel. The paper notes the similarities between Beowulf and Grendel and explains that the main one was that they were both last of their line. The paper adds that they had interesting lineages and they were both champions for their people with similar fates.
From the Paper
"Beowulf is the classic Scandinavian epic of the mighty Beowulf. Beowulf fights many monsters over his life-time but probably his most famous battle involves an anthropomorphic monster named Grendel. In many ways the characters of Beowulf and Grendel are complete opposites. Beowulf is the powerful, noble and charismatic warrior and Grendel is the ultimate predator seeming to lack even the most rudimentary social skills, courage or even a shred of human decency. Although these characters are extremely different they do share a number of similarities."
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"Grendel " by John Gardner, 2008.
A discussion of the novel, "Grendel", which is a retelling of the Anglo-Saxon epic "Beowulf", from the perspective of the antagonist.
1,736 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses that the novel, "Grendel", is a retelling of the Anglo-Saxon epic Beowulf from the perspective of the antagonist i.e. Grendel. The paper says that the 1971 novel by John Gardner follows the life of Grendel but at the same time attempts to construct a deeper subtext by tackling issues such as the quest for meaning in the world, the purpose of man, and the fight between good and evil. The paper further states that the philosophical content of Grendel is undeniable; Grendel follows the changes that occur inside of him, and in doing so, formulates intelligent commentaries as to the two main perspectives on the world and the purpose of humanity, determinism and existentialism. The paper also states Grendel's war on mankind is waged as a result of his encounter with the dragon whose nihilistic view deeply influences Grendel. Grendel now feels enraged by the romantic view that the Danes have on the world, and their history of braveness and courage. The paper asserts the thesis that Grendel is an existentialist who tries to provide meaning to his life in an environment that is hostile to him.
From the Paper
"Grendel is an existentialist who tries to derive meaning from the world around him. Gardner himself explained, "What Grendel does is take, one by one, the great heroic ideals of mankind since the beginning and make a case for these values by setting up alternatives in an ironic set of monster values. I hate Existentialism." (Morace; Van Spanckeren: 67). Grendel starts out as a nihilist for whom everything is meaningless and devoid of real value. However, he yearns for meaning. His revolt is interior because he does not see himself as important since he in only an animal. Moreover, he gets angry at the sky for "ignoring" him. This is a stage of deep confusion for Grendel who is torn between his feeling that nothing is truly of importance in the world, and the awareness that no matter how many men he kills, he cannot break their spirits as they continue to rebuilt their castle. His inability to destroy their faith and morale angers him."
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"Beowulf", 2002.
An analysis of the epic poem "Beowulf", providing a summary of the main theme in the poem.
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the poem "Beowulf" which tells the story of the hero Beowulf and his fight to save a community, which is not his own, first from the monster Grendel and then from Grendel's mother. Later in the poem, Beowulf also fights a dragon. It explains that these monsters fight from different motives, from the relatively petty pique of Grendel to the desire for vengeance from Grendel's mother and the desire for revenge against a wrong from the dragon. The writer shows how the attack produces a response from Beowulf that shows aspects of his character, makes it possible for him to show his prowess, and suggests the values that shape the society of his time.
From the Paper
"The monster Grendel attacks Hrothgar's army in Heorot, and the motivations given in the poem begin with the fact that the creature is simply unhappy and does not like to see human beings happy. The army celebrates because of its great victory in war and because Hrothgar has constructed Heorot, and Hrothgar now holds a feast where he gives out rings and treasure to his men. Grendel is described as a "fierce spirit" (3) who painfully endures hardship and "who dwelt in the darkness" (3), and the reason given for his pain is that "every day he heard loud mirth in the hall" (3). The warriors "lived in joy" (3), while Grendel is called a "grim spirit" and a "hellish enemy" (3). Grendel is also described as an "Unhappy creature" (3), and one of the reasons for this is that "he lived for a time in the home of the monsters' race" (3). This is a reference to the place to which Cain and his progeny were banished after Cain slew Abel. This aspect of the story is a likely addition from the Christian era, but the story as it now stands suggests that Grendel is seeking revenge for having been so banished and for having to live with "all the bad breeds, trolls and elves and monsters" (3) that were born to Cain and his descendants because of that banishment."
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The Might of Grendel's Mother, 2002.
A brief examination of the character of Grendel's mother in the epic poem "Beowulf".
857 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at why many critics claim that there is no real purpose for the episode with Grendel's mother in the poem "Beowulf" except to exemplify the killing-of-kin vengeance code. It looks at the way that she is represented throughout the poem and if she has any contribution to the main theme of "Beowulf".
From the Paper
"Evidence of this projection is found in descriptions of Grendel's mother. She is described in more human terms than is her son, implying her brotherhood with mankind, despite having given birth to a monstrous offspring. Were she herself unidentifiable with humanity, her connection with Beowulf would not be plausible. Called mother, woman, and wife, Grendel's mother is shown to possess human emotions, even when she "would go on a sorrowful venture, [to] avenge her son's death" (Beowulf 50). Grendel's mother is not only described in human terms; more specifically, she "is called by nouns normally reserved for males?for example, sceg ?man, warrior' (1379a) and wrecund 'avenger' (1256b)?and she is referred to by masculine pronouns" (Bessinger and Yeager 153), which further links her with the Beowulf persona."
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Beowulf and Achilles, 2008.
This paper compares and contrasts the hero figures of Beowulf from "Beowulf" and Achilles from "The Iliad".
789 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 0 sources, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper looks closely at the heroes in the poems "Beowulf" and "The Iliad" and shows how Beowulf fights and lives on a superior level than Achilles. The paper discusses how Beowulf, through his battles and his image, becomes a kind of mythological figure, while Achilles, despite the charisma he has with the troops and the way he does battle, remains to the end an ordinary human being. The paper shows how even in death he is killed by a mortal, while it takes another mythological being, a dragon, to kill Beowulf.
From the Paper
"Both Achilles and Beowulf are the centre hero-figures of the literary works they are presented in and the poems "Beowulf" and "The Iliad" are centered on their existence and evolution. However, while Beowulf's mythological struggle seems to bear an extraterrestrial projection, his success seemingly determined the outcome of mankind's faith, Achilles is the centre of a battle between individuals on Earth. Despite godly interventions, the Iliad remains a battle between the Greeks and the Trojans over the fate of Helen of Troy rather than a glorious combat of mythological perspective."
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James H. Morey's "The Fates of Men in Beowulf", 2008.
Explores the thesis presented by James H. Morey in "The Fates of Men in Beowulf" regarding the "Beowulf" poet's description of the deaths of the ruling kings.
770 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how James H. Morey's thesis, in "The Fates of Men in Beowulf", centers on how the Beowulf'- poet describes, or just as importantly, doesn't describe the deaths of the ruling kings in each of the three dynastic houses. In particular, the paper looks at Morey's contention that the Swedish and Geatish houses have most of their king's deaths related in a clear and convincing way and that the Danish house is the only one with a significant number of kings whose demises are ambiguous. Contrary to Morey's belief, the paper concludes that a close look at the specific examples of explicitly detailed deaths in both the Swedish and Geatish royals, makes it obvious that these two houses are guilty of the same kin-slaying that to Morey makes the Danes special.
From the Paper
"The Geatish house has an even more explicit depiction of kin-slaying in the example of Hrethel's eldest son Herebeald. The tale is related via Beowulf's speech before the dragon fight when he describes how the second eldest son of Hrethel, Haethcyn, hitting and killing his elder brother with an arrow. It is unclear whether or not this was a purposeful act, but the poet's description of it as "fyrenum gesyngad" paints it as deliberate, and malicious, act of violence."
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"Beowulf", 2004.
An analysis of the epic poem, "Beowulf", explaining how it symbolizes historical and social conditions of the time.
1,458 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This essay looks at the heroic code that is exemplified by Beowulf, as seen in his battles with Grendel, his fight with Grendel?s mother, and in his relationship with Hygelac. In the second part, the essay examines how Beowulf moves away from this heroic code in his final battle with the dragon. In the conclusion, the essay shows that Beowulf makes choices that hark back to his past courage and foreshadow his own bravery and death. This shows that his choice of the heroic life has implications not only for himself, but for his kingdom as well.
From the Paper
"Even before the hero?s appearance, the narrator already establishes the strong heroic code that dictates honorable conduct in Scandinavian kingdoms. This is depicted in the court of Hrothgar, ruler of the Scyldings. Early in the poem, the narrator shows how rulers like Hrothgar were very dependent on the allegiance of retained warriors, known as thanes. The heroic code stipulated that the thanes should serve their ruler with absolute loyalty and courage. This included courage in battle. In return, Hrothgar and other rulers were expected to provide their thanes with shelter, food and other basic needs (Sisson 1996). Hrothgar?s own mead-hall is named Heorot."
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Good, Evil and Beowulf, 2008.
This paper examines the issues of good and evil in the modern translation of Beowulf by Alan Sullivan and Timothy Murphy.
1,217 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 1 source, $ 41.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that the theme of good versus evil and the importance of community support are evident in Alan Sullivan and Timothy Murphy's modern day translation of Beowulf. The writer explains that Beowulf, who is an honorable, strong and courageous warrior, sets out to protect the people of Heorot from the evils of the world, which are Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a fierce Dragon. The people of Heorot are a society who value honor, loyalty, and courage in one another and believe that strong community support is needed for survival. Beowulf is dedicated to his fellow men and strives for the greater good of all, especially in times of war. The writer notes that although Beowulf was never motivated by greed or selfishness, it is the decline in society's honor and loyalty which resulted in his tragic death. The writer concludes that he will be remembered and respected as an honorable, loyal and courageous warrior who left behind a legacy for all.
From the Paper
"Beowulf is dedicated to his fellow men and strives for the greater good of all, especially in times of war. Beowulf also deals with the Christian views of greed, selfishness and human behavior, along with its negative consequences. Beowulf's dedication to the people of Heorot never ceases, he is only as strong as the community support surrounding him. Although Beowulf was never motivated by greed or selfishness, it is the decline in society's honor and loyalty which resulted in his tragic death."
"Beowulf's strength and honorable character is not only an example of his father's upbringing but also of inherited traits. Beowulf, who was raised by a father who was a highly respected warrior of his time, learned the importance of a supportive community from an early age."
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'Beowulf', 2006.
A review of the epic poem, 'Beowulf'.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the German epic poem 'Beowulf'. The paper reports that 'Beowulf' is said to have been written sometime between the years circa 675 A.D. and circa 1000 A.D. According to the paper, the poem tells the story of a king, Beowulf, from his youth to old age, as he saves a neighboring people from the monster, Grendel.
From the Paper
"Copied down by monks, the poem is probably an originally mythological treatment of a real person who lived during the ages when men did not and could not write. Back then, people passed along stories by word of mouth, rather than printing it in a newspaper. Storytellers, called scops or bards, roamed the seas or countryside and for a hot meal and a bed, would entertain the townspeople with songs and tales of what had happened in neighboring kingdoms. The story of Beowulf includes a professional bard who accompanies himself on a harp and sings or chants traditional lays, who improvises a song about Beowulf's victory."
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"The Odyssey" and "Beowulf", 2006.
An analysis and comparison of the heroic characters in Homer's "The Odyssey" and in "Beowulf".
1,500 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the heroes of Odysseus in "The Odyssey" by Homer and Beowulf in "Beowulf", which are two of the greatest epics in Western literature. The similarities discussed by the paper include: both heroes undertake a great journey across water; both heroes descend into the underworld; both undergo trials and tribulations and must depend on the companionship of others; and both are uniquely grand men in their times. On the other hand, the paper demonstrates how despite these similarities, Beowulf and Odysseus are drastically different characters. Beowulf comes across as a noble and self-sacrificing knight, explains the paper, while Odysseus seems prone to adventuring for the sake of spoils, women and fame. Other differences include that Beowulf is literally seen as the hand of God in stamping out evil; Odysseus, on the other hand, struggles in opposition to the gods. The paper also demonstrates how Odysseus struggles against nature and his fellow man, while Beowulf struggles against demons.
From the Paper
"Beowulf and Odysseus have quite different approaches to heroism and its purposes. Beowulf is driven to act as he does based on the guidance of his wise men and religious leaders, who urge him to go "help the king who needed help."(1) At its core, Beowulf's purpose is to bring "relief from this evil." (1) Though eventually he will be rewarded by the Queen for his good deeds and his promise of friendship to her sons and given by her "the largest neck ring I have heard tell of on the earth," (6) still he does not respond either with pride or with hubris, but remains a "gentle, joyful one... mild in spirit, and faithful to his king." (6) Odysseus, on the other hand, does not approach adventures through some sort of over-weening altruism. When he battles monsters, it is because they stand between him and his goals (usually his way home). When he acts heroically, he generally does so in hope of gaining the monetary pleasure of kings. For example, Odysseus usually closely follows up his accounts of his own heroic adventures with a blatant request for tribute, as when -in the middle of accounting his trip to the Underworld, he says: "King Alcinous, if you were to bid me to stay here for a whole twelve months, and then speed me on my way, loaded with your noble gifts, I should obey you gladly..." (Book XI) This is quite different from Beowulf, who offers his loyalty and friendship without price."
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Beowulf: The Evolution of a King, 2002.
Looks at how the character of Beowulf boasts prior to each major battle, in the epic poem "Beowulf".
1,100 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at Beowulf's three boasts prior to fighting each major battle in the story. It shows how each speech shines light on Beowulf's character and how he matures during the poem. It examines how his character develops to become worthy of being a king.
From the Paper
"The story of Beowulf is one of heroism and bravery. It tells the story of a young man?s growth and development into the ruler of his kingdom. Much of the poem?s depth lies in the changes in the tone among Beowulf?s dialogues as he matures. The changes between the speeches that Beowulf makes prior to fighting each of his adversaries show his maturation into manhood and the effects that these changes have on his behavior."
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Intricacy in "Beowulf", 2004.
A discussion on how the Old English epic "Beowulf" dramatises subtle behaviour in a complex social world.
2,437 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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This paper argues that the Beowulf poet develops an intricacy in his poem that is unusual to Old English literature. It considers the nature of evil in the poem and also the notion of transience commonplace to Old English poetry. It looks at how "Beowulf" is unusual in that it predates ? by about a millennium ? present conceptions of evil and how a modern reader might draw parallels between Grendel and Osama Bin Laden, for example. It examines how the poem is fashioned by its propensity for dwelling on the continuum that exists between good and evil, and subsequently by its use of dualistic modes of interpretation: the finite as against the infinite, the human in opposition to the non-human. It also contends that Beowulf presents a mode of dualism that is ever present in human thinking and that the poem dramatises subtle behaviour in its subversion of this dualism.
From the Paper
"That Beowulf is so fundamental to ? and in fact determines ? what is a particularly momentous conundrum impresses upon the reader the total importance of his character in the poem. His death is not the end of a poem, but the potential demise of a nation. It is poignant, and cyclical, that, as Swanton puts it: ?Just as no man knew what became of Scyld Scefing, neither did they know ? nor do we know ? what became of Beowulf?s Geats; they both just drift out of history? . It is fitting that Scyld?s funeral should overshadow, or contain, Beowulf?s; it is Scyld?s infinite death that moderates Beowulf?s finite life. It is perhaps, then, the death of Beowulf that breaks the cyclical hold of Scyld in the poem."
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Beowulf vs. Christ, 2005.
This paper compares and contrasts Beowulf in the epic poem and Jesus, according to Christian beliefs.
2,222 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 69.95
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Abstract
The general idea of the paper is to compare Beowulf to Jesus. A fairly difficult topic, this paper does an excellent job at pointing out how Jesus and Beowulf have many parallels, evident because the narrator telling the story had recently converted from paganism to Christianity. Grendel, his mother, and other characters help form the body of this paper.
From the Paper
"Existing as the oldest example of English literature in the form of an epic poem, Beowulf is an ancient pagan story involving two Scandinavian tribes, the Danes and the Geats. As the two tribes converted to Christianity, what was once an old pagan tale came to be greatly influenced by Christian morals, ideals, and traits. Since the Christian scop, or narrator of the story, tries to superimpose Christian beliefs onto a pagan story and as a result, the hero of Beowulf can be compared to Jesus Christ in a number of ways."
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