Throughout history and even in the modern world, tales, fables, and stories tell of hideous and cunning monsters who wreak havoc on those around them. Similarly, in the epic poem Beowulf, monsters such as demons and dragons are integral parts, playing a large role in the plot. No historian has been able to conclusively prove how the idea of monsters was invented. Several theories claim to explain how the existence of monsters was created; one credible theory states that monsters could have derived from the projection of unwanted qualities in humans. Monsters could be a twisted personification of humans who exaggerate elements of human nature that the world has traditionally perceived as bad (Trout). In the translation of Beowulf by Seamus …show more content…
The first monster to create mass destruction is Grendel, a demon descended from Cain who devours men in the peacefulness of their sleep. Grendel resides in chamber underneath a swamp which sits in the land of the Danes ruled by King Hrothgar. At this time the Danes are a jovial and carefree people, rejoicing in their finery. One of their greatest prides, Heorot Hall, built by Hrothgar, a Hall drenched in splendor, said to be, “ a wonder of the world forever;” (line 70). The hall screams extravagance and luxury exemplifying man’s value of material things. Heorot is a symbol of extraordinary wealth and frivolous living. Much like this Grendel takes large numbers of men, even thirty at once, showing his exorbitant way of life. He takes what he wants and does so without regret. While Grendel does not value material things like the men in Heorot, the humans are the equivalent in his demented world. He is selfish, just like the humans with …show more content…
Grendel believes himself to be invincible which tends to occur in most people’s lives at some point. Teenagers across the world have been given a similar lecture hoping to prove one major point, they are not indestructible or invincible. However, it appears as if Hrothgar missed out on this important speech because he recounts his reign, stating his mistakes, saying, “I came to believe my enemies had faded from the face of earth. Still, what happened was a hard reversal from bliss to grief.” (1772-1775). Hrothgar speaks of the consequences when one forgets that he has weaknesses or that there are those strong enough to oppose him. Much like this Grendel assumes his power is unmatched and this assumption showcases the humanness side of him. It is clear that Grendel believes this to be true because of his shock displayed during his final battle against Beowulf. There are several moments when Grendel’s disbelief is shown just in this fight. One of these times the situation is described by saying, Grendel, mind scrambling, is astonished and anxious about the remainder of the fight. One moment of the battle is detailed, “The captain of evil discovered himself in a hand grip harder than anything he had ever encountered in any man on the face of the earth” (Lines 749-52). Grendel has never met a man or creature that rivaled his power and is surprised and alarmed at the fact that Beowulf