In the Beowolf story this is an apparent theme. ... The main question is; Why and how are certain groups in Beowulf marginalized and thus made outcasts and in what ways are they similar and different? ... A reason for the unimportance and the subservient role of women in Beowulf is that heroic epics such as beowulf tend to valorize men's deeds in war; thus, in this warring society, it is difficult to recognize the presence of women who are shadows to the main male-centered action. ... An example of this is when Wealtheow enters the hall, "observing the courtesies Adorned in her gold...

• Word Count: 992
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Early on in the poem, Beowulf crosses the land of Danes to rid the country of a carnivorous monster known as Grendel (Beowulf will defeat the monster). ... There is also the theme of good vs. evil. ... For example, with Grendel , he is portrayed as the "monster," and there is naturally hated by the reader. ... Another theme of the novel is the confrontation order and chaos. ... Through such changes, Gardner creates themes that appear in "Grendel" and much of his later work....

• Word Count: 1139
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School