Grendel Study Guide

Grendel, based on the epic poem, Beowulf, tells the story of the battle between the hero Beowulf and the monster Grendel from Grendel's perspective. In the story, Grendel both defines himself against humankind and longs to feel some connection to humankind. As an outsider to humanity, Grendel has interesting insights into human society, but is primarily interested in defining himself as more than just a killing machine. Grendel attacks humans physically and defends those attacks psychologically. He is a thinking, talking killer who knows his fate, yet still feels drawn into conflict. (read more)