Beowulf LRJ #2

Reoccurring values that are portrayed in the Anglos-Saxon story of Beowulf are justice and religion. Justice values are shown throughout the adventurous story by Beowulf continuing his effort to keep Shieldings safe from the monstrous Grendel and his "hell-bride" (1259) mother. He goes out of his way to destroy the villains and keep the town from harm. He is willing to die in the battle. "...if I should fall and suffer death while serving your cause, would act like a father to me afterwards. If this combat kills me, take care of my young company." (1480). Beowulf seems to accept the fate if he passes. "I shall gain glory or die." (1491). God and giving thanks is a reappearing subject in this tale. "... sprang to his feet and praised God for Beowulf's pledge." (1397). The characters trust and leave the decision for whatever the matter may be up to God. "... holy God decided the victory." (1554). The value of religion is very broad in this Anglos-Saxon story.

Unrealistic moments in "Grendel's Mother" happen quite a few times. The characters of Grendel and his mother are fictional, "the one who haunted the waters, who had scavenged and gone her gluttonous rounds for a hundred seasons." (1598) and so is the underwater battle scene. "... gripped her shoulder and laid about him in a battle frenzy: he pitched his killer opponent to the floor..." (1539). Some of the weapons also seem to have a unrealistic past. "... a sword in her armoury, an ancient heirloom from the days of the giants... so huge and heavy of itself." (1558).

Favorite quotes of mine in Beowulf are "...warming to this fight." (1536) and "The lake settled, clouds darkened above the bloodshot depths." (1631). I enjoy these quotes because it really paints a picture for you to imagine. You can almost see yourself "warming up" to a fight, preparing yourself. The image of the lake after the battle scene is haunting, but settled.