Language is an aspect of Grendel’s life that he both admires and hates for the reason being that he has no one to freely speak with, unlike humans who freely converse with each other. Grendel’s use of language evolves throughout the novel. From simple thoughts to elaborate soliloquies with symbolism, Grendel learns how to articulate his language poetically, expressing his inner-most feelings.
In the beginning of the novel, Grendel has difficulty comprehending a familiar sound spoken by the humans. Grendel’s curiosities of that familiar sound lead him to explore and observe humans conversing. He begins to understand and speak the human language after years of observations. However, his speech is not far from perfect. He begins alternate the language to suit his needs and to figure out the difficulties held in the language.
Grendel mastered a form of Old English towards the end of the novel that is pleasing and is similar to the way the noble may have spoken. Grendel can speak fluently and has become advanced in his communication. Although he can speak very well, he cannot speak freely with humans for the fact that they fear his existence. Grendel’s mother refuses to speak to him do to their lineage to Cain causing God to banish them. When Grendel goes to attack the Hrothgar’s meadhall, Grendel is stunned to hear Unferth speak and respond to him openly. For this reason, Grendel spares his life and does not kill him.
Grendel’s attitude towards language changes in a variety of ways throughout the novel. From a disciple of language to a language master, Grendel becomes advances in language, altering it to fit his own needs. Although language played an important role in his life, the major con is that he does not always have someone to freely communicate or express his feelings with. Towards the end of the novel, Grendel became fluent in language and learned to speak in poetic verse. Although it is unlikely for a monster to speak in such terms, Grendel’s ability to do so gives a kinship with language.
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