Journal 3

As one gets further into the story, Grendel realizes the true importance of language. Language separates the more important characters in Grendel. While the animals and Grendel's mother cannot speak, the humans and Grendel can. Grendel and the humans use language to define and explain aspects of life. Grenadel and the humans speak in languages that are very similar. This allows Grendel and the monsters to communicate with each other. Later in the story, language enables Grendel to talk to Unferth and Beowulf.
Grendel believes that language is beautiful and powerful. The Shaper's words made "even the surrounding hills were hushed, as if brought low by language" (42). Grendel really understands the Shaper's words in chapter 3. "The man had changed the world...and they, who knew the truth, remembered it his way--and so did I" (43). Grendel says that the Shaper's song gave the Scyldings "confidence...their blissful, self-satisfaction, and, worst of all, their hope" (77). Grendel's growth of style and language shows his growth as a character. As he moves from a childish, undeveloped monster to a foul, yet intellectual beast, Grendel experiments with literature styles and expands upon his work of fiction. For example, he alters the shape of the text and begins to include other characters' inner thoughts.