Constructing the monstrous body in Beowulf

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The monstrosity of Grendel and his mother have long held the interest of Beowulf-scholars. Examining the bodily attributes of both figures in order to detect inter-textual patterns of diction, this article focuses on depictions of the monsters' skin, hands and blood. In analysing these attributes, it becomes clear that the Beowulf-poet's chosen descriptors align the monstrous body with manmade objects in general and with weapons and armour in particular. This blurring of body and human artifact creates an environment for monstrous existence that is between and outside of both human culture and nature.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)155-181
Number of pages27
JournalAnglo-Saxon England
Volume43
Early online date26 Nov 2014
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2014

Bibliographical note

license: Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2014 

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