Grendel and beuwolf

A combination of perspectives in the epic poem Beowulf and the modern novel Grendel allows the reader to contrast the point of view of both pieces and by doing so alters the perception of religion, good and bad, and Grendel. In 750 Beowulf was written and later translated by Judeo Christian monks who focused away from the “marauding monsters and menacing trolls” to predestination and God. Beowulf became a poem involving Pagan traditions, Christian values, and a battle between good and evil. Grendel is a modern novel written in 1971 by John Gardner. It reveals Grendel’s feelings, thoughts, and motives. The two stories provide the reader two different perspectives of Beowulf and Grendel.
In Beowulf, Grendel was seen as a “murderous ravager” and a “vanquished monster.” He was feared by the Danes, and exhibits little emotion and no remorse for taking the lives of others. After the Thanes had spent a night of feasting and drinking they slept in the Wine-hall. While they are ...