Grendel Paper

When deciding whether or not a character is a hero or an anti-hero it is important to be able to distinguish heroic deeds from contradicting hero characteristics. In the short story Grendel, Grendel's true qualities are revealed through his words and actions against the Danes. A thorough examination of a characters true intentions revealed by his actions shows us that having a story which follows the guidelines of the heroes journey doesn't necessarily make you a hero.
An analysis of Grendel's characteristics shows us that he is an anti-hero. In the middle of the story, we see Grendel go out of his way, just to go on a killing rampage, which shows us he doesn't fight for honor. This is significant because if he doesn't fight for anyone but himself then he isn't a true hero. Though he is fighting for survival, Grendel is at fault because he can't be hurt by the regular warriors. Another example of his anti-heroism is in the beginning when he describes how the joyousness of the Danes angers and enrages him. This shows us that he has no self control, which means he isn't strong in the mind. The impact of Grendel's vicious killing is the effect of his weak minded ness which causes more slaughter and I honorable killing.
Another key idea showing his true colors is his over confidence. In the middle of the novel as he's rampaging in the mead hall, he dares the warriors to come and attack him. This is important because he knows he can't be injured by these meager warriors which gives him a false sense of security. His display of one versus all of the Danes may seem like bravery, but in truth is false bravado. Another example of anti-heroism is when he has an apple battle with Unferth. This is important because it demonstrates to us that Grendel fights for his own intentions. He didn't fight for any kind of honor or valor, but instead for his own amusement, which aren't heroic traits. The impact of his dis honoring of the Danes is the effect of his weak ambitions and singular view.
The examination of the Grendel story reveals Grendel's true intentions through his actions and words which shows us that having a story based on the core guidelines of the heroes journey doesn't mean that the main character will be a hero. His killing rampage shows us that he doesn't fight for honor. Not only does he not fight for honor, but he doesn't have any control nor does he fight for others rather than himself. His over confidence reveals another negative of Grendel's which would be false bravery or false heroism. Ultimately, a true warrior must have the qualities and characteristics of a hero in order to obtain such status.