Similarities Between Beowulf And Grendel

Competition between rivals causes a battle over the mead halls. Jealousy leads to rage between protagonists. These leaders include Unferth, Beowulf and Grendel. In the stories Beowulf and Grendel, there are fierce encounters between enemies who attempt to defend their boasts and seek revenge, leaving no true hero. “…I can show the wise Hrothgar a way to defeat his enemy and find respite…” (Beowulf 21). In Beowulf’s call to adventure, he is not invited to help the Danes; Beowulf takes it upon himself to go to the land of the Danes because he feels the need to relive his father Ecgtheow’s accomplishments. Beowulf was mocked by numerous people, such as Unferth, telling Beowulf that he is not man enough. “Unferth, a son of Ecglaf’s spoke contrary words…Beowulf’s coming made him sick…” (Beo 35). Unferth pushes the fact that Beowulf is only there to show off his strength. Beowulf is not a hero because he takes
“…we belong by birth to the Geat people and owe allegiance to Lord Hygelac…” (Beo 19). In the beginning of the story Beowulf was consistent with his actions, but as it drew near the end, there were no significant signs that proved Beowulf's compassion toward the Dane people. His true ulterior motive was to prove to many that he was more than just Ecgtheow’s son, that he should be known as Beowulf, a great warrior. If Beowulf were a hero, he would have stopped Grendel early in his tracks. “…I have eaten several priests. They sit on the stomach like duck eggs…” (Gren 129). As Grendel is still successful in eating innocent people, he is neither a hero and can even be considered a villain. Beowulf is given many chances to prove his heroism, but “…the builders are hammering, replacing the door for the fiftieth or sixtieth time…” (Gren 14). In both cases, neither figure is fighting for the right purpose. A true hero has a main purpose: to help the people