It is striking to me to see the resemblance between Grendel and Satan. Grendel is described as a “powerful demon” who “[prowls] through the dark” and is distressed at the sound of praises of God the Creator (line 86). Not to mention that Grendel is “condemned as [an] outcast,” just like how Satan is casted out of Heaven when he rejected God (line 117). His role in this story is to cause pain, distress, and destruction. I am curious as to why the author chooses to write so much detail on Grendel in the beginning. Is his role that important, that we should take such notice? Or is it necessary for us to understand his character and motives before we can understand the rest of the story? How is the audience supposed to react to him? With empathy or simply a hatred? Personally, I react with a sense of hatred and anger; and I think that is where the author intends the audience to end up as well.
While I mainly took notice in Grendel’s description, I also appreciate the fact that God remains stronger and can “easily halt these raids” by the evil Grendel (line 479). It reminds us that although there is an enemy that is waiting to attack and devour us, we can stand firm on the fact that we have a God who is mightier. This allows hope, paralleling to how Beowulf defeats Grendel. Having this evil being also serves as contrast, and reminds of the goodness of the Lord.
I commented on Darby’s and Noah’s!
I like how you said that having this evil being Grendel serves as a contrast for us to see the goodness of the Lord. I have thought about this subject on numerous occasions. Without evil, we would not know goodness.
ReplyDeleteI agree, I think Grendel is intended to parallel a mighty and evil character but kind of don't think Grendel is good enough to be Satan. By the same token, maybe Grendel's mom coming in is the perfect depiction of how unlike God, Satan is incapable of fighting and winning all of his own battles purely by his own strength.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great analogy, I totally agree with you that there are many similarities between Grendel and Satan. I also like, what Jessica Weeks said about Satan being incapable of fighting his own battles.
ReplyDeleteI think it is interesting you recognized Grendel's description the most upon your reading. It's fascinating how each individual picks up on something different in the same story. I think the symbolism that all yall have been portraying with Grendel as Satan, and the Lord being greater and having ultimate control over evil's doings, is such a great reminder for even Christians today.
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