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Heroism In 'Grendel' By John Gardner

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Heroism In 'Grendel' By John Gardner
Grendel, written by John Gardner, is a retelling of his own side of the story from the famous epic, Beowulf. Grendel is a powerful yet terrifying monster who is able to produce thoughts just like humans. Although he is very similar to mankind, he has a strong hatred towards them. Grendel deconstructs Anglo-Saxon heroism during the fight between Unferth and Beowulf, as well as his talk with the dragon, he

After being terrorized for many years, Unferth decides to fight the “shepherd of evil.”
Grendel challenges the Anglo-Saxon’s belief of heroism, making a fool out of Unferth, who faced a humiliating defeat. Unferth’s goal was to be recognized as an Anglo-Saxon hero, someone who is an honorable warrior and is willing to sacrifice everything
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