preview

Jealousy In Beowulf

Decent Essays

Beowulf is an interesting, old English epic poem. Often referred to as one the most important works of Old English Literature. The author of the poem is unknown, but the date the poem was made into a manuscript is c. 975 – 1010 CE. Although, the manuscript was damaged from a fire in 1731. The poem of Beowulf is set in Scandinavia c. 700 – 1000 CE. It starts with Hrothgar, king of Danes building a mead hall for his loyal followers. Then Grendel, the monster hears everyone’s joyfulness and is over come with jealousy. The over jealous Grendel decides to attack the men in their sleep. No one is brave nor strong enough to stand up to Grendel either. This goes on for 12 years until a young warrior by the name of Beowulf over hears of Hrothgar’s troubles. …show more content…

The grateful king Hrothgar bathes Beowulf and his men in luxurious gifts. The next night Beowulf is asleep in a quarters quite a distance from his comrades. Whilst asleep Grendel’s mother, comes and abducts one of Hrothgar’s favorite counsellors and devours him. Beowulf is then called to action, determined to fully purify Herot Beowulf arms himself and sets off to find Grendel’s mother in the bottom of a ocean. After searching for hours on end, Beowulf encounters Grendel’s mother near the sea floor. The monster then grabs Beowulf and drags him into her den. While in the den and fighting the monster, Beowulf sees Grendel’s body lying dead. After a long and nearly fatal battle, Beowulf is victorious. When Beowulf emerges from the ocean, he is carrying with him the head of Grendel. Herot could not be any more grateful to Beowulf. Hrothgar baths Beowulf in treasure and valuables as a sign of his gratitude. All the noblemen and wealthy agree that Beowulf would be their next ruler of sorts. As time comes for Beowulf to return to his homeland Hrothgar is hesitant for him to leave, he is literally crying while Beowulf sets sail to his

Get Access