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Essay / Beowulf as a Reflection of Anglo-Saxon Values - 451
In history, evil men have reigned supreme in many cultures. Some people say that being bad is inherent in every human being. If this is true, then writing might be the ultimate way to release the world's hatred without hurting anyone. In Beowulf, all the evil men in society can be personified within Cain's demons. The main demon featured in Beowulf is Grendel. Grendel embodies exactly the opposite of what the Anglo-Saxons held dear. Beowulf, the hero of the story, is the embodiment of what every Anglo-Saxon strove to become during his life. Grendel is constantly angry, afraid, and insecure; while Beowulf is fearless and loyal to his king. Through Grendel's hatred and anger, he brings about his own downfall. The “sin-stained demon” has its roots in the vile creature Cain. Since Grendel is fathered by Cain, he can never feel the love of God or men: "...God, / Whose love Grendel could not know." (84-85). It is for this reason that Grendel hates every mortal being he lays eyes on. Hate leads to anger, constant anger, "...bearing hatred of God, / Grendel came hoping to kill" (393-394). Fear is Grendel's other major fault: "His mind was flooded with fear..." (435). Through his hatred and fear, Grendel seals his own fate. Anger then gives way to insecurity and low self-esteem. The moment Grendel realizes that there is someone as strong as him, he tries to run away, "...Grendel's only thought was to flee / From Beowulf, to flee to his swamp and hide there:" (437-438), but it is too late. Just like when the average bully meets his opponent, he runs in fear of not being able to win. Grendel does not have the audacity to stand up to Beowulf with all his might and therefore falls into Beowulf's hands. The exact opposite of the points mentioned so far is manifested in the character of Beowulf. Beowulf is easily able to defeat Grendel once Grendel has lost all hope of winning, "...remembered his finale / Boasted and, standing, stopped / The monster's flight..." (440-443). Beowulf is also, instead of being insecure and unconfident, overconfident and a braggart..