A great monster is stunned to find his arm gripped with greater strength than he knew possible in the Anglo-Saxon epic Beowulf. Brutal battle scenes such as this are inherent in all forms of great literature. In the novel, the three major battle scenes are between Beowulf and Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon. The major themes of this narrative poem are the triumph of goodness over evil and glory and reputation. Beowulf, the hero of the tale, stands for all that is good, brave and proper, while the monsters stand for evil. Scenes of violence in Beowulf contribute significantly to the theme and meaning of the novel as a whole.
             The first violent scene in the novel is between Beowulf, the protagonist, and Grendel, an ogre-like monster who resents the hope and happiness of mankind. The author uses vivid imagery to describe every moment of the encounter, from the gruesome murder and consumption of the first warrior to the tendon-popping of Grendel's arm as Beowulf pulls it out of socket. This perspective emphasizes the fear and pain that Beowulf inflicts upon the demon, making Beowulf seem like a godlike, unstoppable force. He shows himself stronger and more powerful than even the monstrous Grendel, illuminating the theme of good versus evil. The scene is also crucial to the plot of the story. Instead of simply listing what the two opponents do to each other, the poet describes the effect. Heorot is nearly destroyed. Grendel's wails alarm the Danes waiting outside. When the fight is over, and Grendel flees to his lair, the trophy claw on the wall serves as a proud reminder of Beowulf's victory over evil.
             When Grendel's mother seeks vengeance against the Danes for the death of her son, Beowulf cannot deny the opportunity of enhancing his reputation and receiving the glory again. He dives into the lake, which is the perfect setting for this evil monster, filled with boiling blood and horrible creature...