Beowulf Character Analysis

Beowulf is never named in the novel, but his identity can be inferred from context. He is the leader of the Geats and brings a band of men to come to Hrothgar and defeat Grendel for him. Beowulf's strength and commanding presence frighten Grendel when he first arrives. When he fights and defeats Grendel, he attempts to force his radical ideas upon him, telling Grendel that his mind makes the world what it is. After showing his physical and intellectual mastery over Grendel, he tears off Grendel’s arm, causing his death. While Grendel dies denying that Beowulf is a real hero (since he defeated Grendel through chance and trickery), Beowulf is the best example of a hero that the novel offers.