emembered his vast strength, that glorious gift given him of God, and put his trust for support and assistance in the grace of the Lord; thus he overcame the envoy of hell, humbled his evil adversary. (lines 1258- 1263 )Grendel and Grendel's mother in my opinion are two of the most interesting characters in the poem because they are both described as hideous monsters which sounds like Germanic legend but they are referred to many times in biblical terms. Grendel is protected by magic, weapons can not pierce his hide, he can only be defeated by hand to hand combat.Throughout the poem, the monsters are referred to as enemies of mankind, and Gods opponent. They represent pure evil, just like Satan and Hell. Grendel is so feared that Strong men often sat in consultation, trying in vain to devise a good plan as to how best valiant men could safeguard themselves against sudden attack. At times they offered sacrifices to the idols in their pagan tabernacles, and prayed aloud to the soul- slayer that he would assist them in their dire distress. Such was the custom and comfort of the heathen; they brooded in their hearts on hellish thingsfor the creator, Almighty God, the judge of all actions, was neglected by them; truly they did not know how to praise the protector of heaven, the glorious ruler." ( lines 171 184) I think this verse somehow represents the poets feelings on Paganism and Christianity. In a time of need, the Danes resort back to their Pagan beliefs because inside they are unsure what to believe in and who to pray to. They are both said to be descendents of the biblical Cain. this cursed creature lived in a monsters lair for a time after the creator had condemned him as one of the seed of Cain the everlasting lord avenged Abels murder. (lines 104 108) , and they are often used to represent hell or evil. the enemy of Gods (line 775) and had warred with God(line 800) The lake that Grendel and his mother had lived in ...
