Beowulf and Grendel

The tale of Beowulf stands as the first work of English literature in history. It gives insight into the culture and society of centuries past, a life dominated by fate and lore, beings and deeds larger than life. Such was the way of life in the world Beowulf illustrates. The tale even briefly touches upon the role of women with the character Welthow. A thousand years after Beowulf was composed, the story was revised and …

…diction, parallel structure, and foreshadowing, both authors effectively establish the idea that Wealtheow is an object, governed by her duties. On the other hand, the use of rhetorical devices such as tone also shows that the queens in both stories are drastically different in terms of happiness and belonging. In Beowulf, Welthow is secure and satisfied. Wealtheow is an outsider and alone in Grendel. Though she serves a purpose, she does not truly fit in.