These passages from Beowulf and Grendel describe feasts in Hrothgar’s hall. Write three to four sentences comparing and contrasting how the people are characterized in each passage. Use details from the text to support your answer.

Answer:

Both passages characterize the people in Hrothgar’s hall as united by music and celebration. In Grendel, however, the people are portrayed as emotionally overwhelmed and almost wild, since they roar, howl, clap, stomp, and weep because of the minstrel’s song. In Beowulf, the Geats and Danes are described more formally as proud, strong, and stalwart, while the orderly feast is supported by an attendant serving mead. Thus, Grendel emphasizes the intense, almost magical power of art, while Beowulf presents a dignified and communal celebration.