Beowulf
Grendel's Mother
In this essay I will be describing Grendel's mother in the epic poem "Beowulf." I will be talking about what type features the demon has as well as the senses that the description of Grendel's mother evokes. Also, I will talk about how imagery makes a reader dive deeper in the world that an author creates in a story.
Beowulf dies. That is exactly what happens in this story. However, the epic hero does not die because of the demon known as Grendel's mother. Still, she plays a pivotal role in this poem. Grendel's mother is the second villain that Beowulf has to battle in this poem. The first being Grendel himself, and lastly a fiery dragon whose name is not given.
Grendel's mother is evil, but this isn't the reason that she attacked the humans. She was upset because of the slaying of her son at the hands of Beowulf. To retaliate, she comes to Herot, takes one of Hrothgar's closest friends, as well as Grendel's arm, which was hung up on the rafters of Herot. For this reason, Beowulf is awakened and goes in search of her at her lair at the bottom of a hidden lake.
"The he saw the mighty water witch, and swung his swordÂ…" That is the first description of Grendel's mother that we receive. Grendel's mother is a demon-like creature just like Grendel as is fueled by evil. The imagery that used to describe her pictures her as an underwater creature. Also, she has long talons which she uses to try and cut Beowulf with continuously. In addition to her demon-like features, she has great strength. The same sword that cut her son couldn't even penetrate her hard skin. Grendel's mother's strength is shown when she is able to pin Beowulf down after he realizes that his sword cannot inflict damage. Although she is strong, she still drew a weapon to kill Beowulf, but he was able to free himself before he was cut.
In spite of all the details you are given about Grendel's mother, they are not all given at once....
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