Post by carolinedorman on Aug 14, 2013 21:57:35 GMT
Grendel’s feelings toward his mother are complicated. Although he depicts her as an unintelligent, repulsive beast, incapable of communication, he also relies on her when he needs to be saved. Gardner writes, “She would gladly have given her life to end my suffering—horrible, humpbacked, carp-toothed creature, eyes on fire with useless, mindless love”(102). Like the rest of his observations, Grendel’s view of his mother’s love is fairly cynical. How does Grendel’s view of his mother’s love shape who he ultimately becomes? If Grendel’s mom was able to communicate with words, do you think Grendel would still be same the pessimistic and cynical creature?
Additionally, when Wealtheow arrives, Grendel seems to be enthralled with her beauty and mysterious feminine qualities. When first describing her, Grendel says, “She was beautiful and she surrendered herself with the dignity of a sacrificial virgin”(96). Both Grendel’s mother and Wealtheow play a sacrificial role in the novel—why do you think Gardner portrays women this way?
Additionally, when Wealtheow arrives, Grendel seems to be enthralled with her beauty and mysterious feminine qualities. When first describing her, Grendel says, “She was beautiful and she surrendered herself with the dignity of a sacrificial virgin”(96). Both Grendel’s mother and Wealtheow play a sacrificial role in the novel—why do you think Gardner portrays women this way?