Humanity in Beowulf

380 Words2 Pages
Legends tell the stories of characters overcoming inhuman obstacles. Beowulf tells the story of a hero, Beowulf, traveling to a faraway kingdom, Danes, to battle against the abominable monster named Grendel who is terrorizing the Danes. Grendel, who relished the war on the Danes (67-68). As did Grendel’s mother. And yet, as the abilities of these characters unfold throughout the story, their humanity is disregarded. There is humanity in the misunderstood Grendel, the love of Grendel’s mother, and the vulnerability of Beowulf. Grendel’s actions are perceived as monstrous but it can be argued as being biased. The Danes are showered with joy and companionship while Grendel bears the curse of his ancestor Cain. Because of this, he is bound to be an outcast, be physically deformed. Grendel could be shown no love by the God of Hrothgar. His humane characteristics are also shown in his ability to feel pain and fear. The pain of his arm being detached while being engulfed in the fear of Beowulf. Grendel’s mother loved her child. She went as far as to seek vengeance for him. She showed sympathy, anger, pain, and grief. She also wanted to preserve the honor of her child by taking Grendel’s claw (421). Because of these strings of emotions, the monstrosity that can be associated with this woman can be lightly disregarded. She was a mother seeking justice for the son that was murdered is dishonored. Throughout his battles, Beowulf has done super human deeds. Some examples include his super human strength (273-275), his ability to survive sinking under water for hours (452), and finally battling against a fire-breathing dragon and winning. He has felt pain. He has known fear and death. He has enjoyed peace and prosperity. He is a hero but he is still a human. These fearsome characters bring with them their own interpretation of them. Whether they are positive or negative.
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