1. Beowulf and Christianity
After Grendel's defeat Beowulf claims that he, "was granted the glory of winning" (817-18). ... One of the first and most obvious biblical references is the story of Cain and Abel. Grendel, who in the ancient version of this story probably took on more of a demonic role, is transformed by the Christian author into a descendent of Cain. ... Grendel, "bears both the mark of Cain and the wrath of God.... There are also traces of the poem's pagan ancestry in its description of Grendel's descendants who, although they are simply supposed to be descended from Cain, are...
- Word Count: 1264
- Approx Pages: 5