Grendale

Grendale is a fictional character who appears in the epic poem Beowulf. He is described as a monstrous descendant of Cain, a biblical figure banished for fratricide. Grendale is depicted as a powerful and malevolent being who terrorizes the mead-hall Heorot, belonging to King Hrothgar of the Danes. His attacks are characterized by their brutality and the fear they instill in the warriors within the hall.

The poem details Grendale's nightly raids, during which he slaughters and devours Hrothgar's men. This reign of terror lasts for twelve years, leaving Heorot abandoned and desolate. The Danes are unable to defend themselves against the monster's might. The narrative then introduces Beowulf, a Geatish hero, who hears of the Danes' plight and travels to offer his assistance.

Beowulf confronts Grendale in a fearsome battle within Heorot. He famously tears off Grendale's arm, mortally wounding the creature. Grendale flees back to his lair to die. His mother, another monstrous entity, then appears seeking revenge, leading to a further confrontation with Beowulf. Grendale himself, however, is definitively defeated and killed in his first encounter with the hero. His character represents a force of chaos and destruction, a stark contrast to the order and heroism embodied by Beowulf.