Grendel's Self Image In Beowulf

A self image consist of the idea one has of one’s abilities, appearance, and personality. As for Grendel a descendant of the biblical Cain, his self image changes throughout the novel. Either from the visit with the dragon or simply observing the Shaper. From the beginning to the end of the novel Grendel’s self image alters; therefore, I will explain different quotes showing Grendel’s change. Three characters that have had a huge impact on the effect of Grendel’s personality would be Hrothgar, the Dragon, and Grendel’s mother. To begin with, Hrothgar plays a key role in the change of Grendel’s self image. For instance, when it states, “And the stars overhead were alive with the promise of Hrothgar’s vast power, his universal peace”(Gardner 44), shows that Grendel’s personality changes to being more observant as he contemplates on the way Hrothgar gains power over other kingdoms. Making Grendel see …show more content…
To illustrate, in chapter 5 when the dragon states, “Can’t you see yourself? You stimulate them? You make them think and scheme. You drive them to poetry, science, religion, all that makes them what they are for as long as they last”(Gardner 72-73). This goes to show that Grendel’s personality has changed him to become self centered. Since Grendel now feels the people orchestrate their life around himself, his changed personality makes him feel confident. Therefore, the dragon changed the way Grendel viewed certain things affecting his personality. In addition, when Grendel gets attacked by the bull Grendel states, “I create the whole universe, blink by blink”(Gardner 22), showing Grendel has changed in a way for him to come realize he has entered the adult world. When Grendel mentions “I create the whole universe” shows he has become more confident in himself being around humans knowing they are dangerous. This goes to explain Grendel knows what a threat he holds to the