Author Archives: Ruth

A modern story might choose to pass over the in-between time when Beowulf is traveling home, or it might choose to feature an important conversation or detail in the journey. The ancient poet creates a passage that can appear abrupt, … Continue reading →

As Hrothgar holds the sword hilt in his hand, he ponders the history of the blade.  Either in pictures or in runes, the story is told of a great race of mankind that was wiped out by the flood.  He … Continue reading →

As Beowulf emerges from the water, dripping and covered with slime, the focus quickly shifts to the trophy head of Grendel.  Just how large was Grendel?  Although Beowulf was able to swim upwards with the head, it requires four normal … Continue reading →

The fight follows four quick steps.  First, Beowulf gets his bearings and wrenches free from her grip to take a stab at the mother with Unferth’s sword.  Second, the sword failing, he flings it aside and tries to wrestle as … Continue reading →

Beowulf’s preparations are shown in detail.  An audience familiar with war and weapons would have been interested in this part.  Did he wear his helmet, which would make swimming difficult?  Yes, he did, and he wore his chain-mail shirt, too.  … Continue reading →

In her attack, Grendel’s mother follows a different strategy.  Grendel became accustomed to the hall, and in his pride he ate his victims on the spot, as well as taking some away with him.  But the mother has never been … Continue reading →

While Grendel’s feud seemed well enough explained as just being part of his monstrous nature, the episode with Grendel’s mother always demands more explanation and raises more questions. It is portrayed less as an outcome of monstrosity and more in … Continue reading →

The second feast closes shortly after Wealhtheow’s speech. Men continue to drink for some time, but the hall is converted into a sleeping-room once again. This was the general custom, but in the opening lines we had learned that warriors … Continue reading →