Similarities and Differences in the Characters Beowulf and Grendel Essay

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character similarities and differences between Grendel and Beowulf based on the classic poem, Beowulf. I would like some specific quotations (at least 5) to support the paragraphs in which the two characters are compared.

Beowulf and Grendel are two of the key protagonists of the poem. Both are similar in that they fight for what they believe and are courageous. Both are dissimilar in that whilst Beowulf is popular and acclaimed possessing characteristics that make him hero to and applauded by society, Grendel is described as malignant and an outcast.

Who was Beowulf?

Beowulf, bairn of the Scyldings,

Beloved land-prince, for long-lasting season

Was famed mid the folk (1-5)

Beowulf exemplifies the traits of the perfect hero. The poem explores demonstrations of his heroism in youth and maturity and analyzes his heroism through his struggles with Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon.

Beowulf was famed for his courage and prowess manifested by his fabled swimming match against Breca. In the first part of the poem, we learn how Beowulf emerges as the savior of Denmark, having purged it of its plague, and he is prepared for ascension to the throne. The young Beowulf matures in power and strength as well as sagacity, and his power takes a different form -- it becomes more sagacious and thoughtful -- as he matures.

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The older Beowulf is still courageous and brave albeit in a more selfless, other-directed way.

Grendel, too, is a courageous creature. He ventures forth into the reputed Beowulf's court and steals his noblemen. The act is described as "Grendel's prowess" (13)

The interesting thing is that both Beowulf and Grendel, the one human the other animals, are both marked and vivified by emotion and a certain recklessness. Beowulf's last fight is a reckless impetuous one; we see the hero sacrificing himself, unnecessarily leaving his people leaderless and vulnerable to external threats. His fight with the dragon seems to be rash, and the poem implies as such. Grendel too comes across as an impulsive, emotional being. Animal though he is, we see his internal life indicated, for instance, by his loneliness in the swamplands and his longing to be restored to human society.

Here the similarities end.

Beowulf was beloved. He embodies the manners and values that are applauded by the Germanic code including loyalty, courage, and manliness. He is the perfect medieval knight and gentleman who is extolled and romanticized by his country.

Grendel, on the other hand, was an outcast. He is a member of "Cain's clan, whom the….....

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