Beowulf Mood Analysis

Beowulf Essay Beowulf is a long narrative poem, the mood shifts throughout the poem, depending on the action of the scene. The mood of Beowulf is a mood of terror and suspense. When Grendal attacks the mead-hall and kills more of Hrothgar’s men, the next day is a somber mood when the men view what had happened the night before. It is a cautious mood or relief of when Beowulf shows up and announces that he has come to battle with the monster. Hrothgar and his people are tired of the constant attacks, but distressed that they themselves have not been able to stop Grendal and now are getting help from an outsider. During the battles with Grendal and Grendal’s mother there is a mood of suspense and energy. There is a moment when his men think he may have failed, and the mood is sad once again, until Beowulf returns from the battle in joyful triumph. After the battles there is a mood of joyful celebration and of giving thanks for Beowulf’s heroism. The party is light-hearted and the sentiments expressed between Beowulf and Hrothgar are heartful and sincere, which adds a dignity to the mood of the party. At the end of the tale, at Beowulf’s funeral, there is certainly a sad mood over the people as they respectfully honor their fallen king mourn his passing. …show more content…
A symbolic object is renewed when Hygelac died in battle wearing it, furthering the ideas of kinship and continuity. The great banquet at Heorot after the defeat of Grendel represents the restoration of order and harmony to the Danish people. The preparation involves the rebuilding of the damaged mead-hall, which, in conjunction with the banquet itself, symbolizes the rebirth of the community. The speeches and giving of gifts, essential components of this society’s interactions, contribute as well to the sense of wholeness