How we cite our quotes: (Page) Vintage Books, 1989
Quote #10
For the world is divided, experience teaches, into two parts: things to be murdered, and things that would hinder the murder of things: and the Geats might be defined either way. (158)
This is dragon philosophy in a nutshell—and Grendel has learned it well. As he assesses the situation with Beowulf, we can see that his worldview has narrowed considerably. Now he just cares about how to kill.
Quote #11
"Neither Breca nor you ever fought such battles," he said. "I don't boast much of that. Nevertheless, I don't recall hearing any glorious deeds of yours, except that you murdered your brothers. You'll prowl the stalagmites of hell for that, friend Unferth—clever though you are." (162)
In this moment, Beowulf has taken meadhall smack-talking to a new level. He's clearly not a political creature, and he doesn't feel he has to tiptoe around the elephant in the room (Unferth the kin-killer). Beowulf doesn't like the slimy thane. The Geatish "hero" is calling it as he sees it—and that totally raises all the stakes.
Quote #12
They watch on, evil, incredibly stupid, enjoying my destruction. "Poor Grendel's had an accident," I whisper. "So may you all." (174)
If you were waiting for a conversion experience or a change of heart for our sad "hero" at the end of the story, you're going to be sadly disappointed. Now that Grendel has reached the end of his seemingly pointless existence (and what a nasty end it is) he moves even closer to the bitterness of the dragon than ever before. His last words are not about repentance or regret (or even one last fantasy about the beautiful Queen Wealtheow)—they're a curse. And it covers every creature witnessing his death—even us. Creepy.