What does the author use in this excerpt to develop Grendel’s character in “Beowulf”?

In the epic poem "Beowulf," the author uses various literary devices to develop the character of Grendel. One such device is imagery, which paints a vivid picture of Grendel's physical appearance and his actions. For instance, the text describes Grendel as a "powerful monster, living down in the darkness, growled in pain, impatient as day after day the music rang loud in that hall," emphasizing his monstrous nature and his dislike for the festivities of the humans.

The author also employs figurative language to portray Grendel as a savage and merciless being. For instance, when Grendel attacks the mead hall, the text states that "his mind was flooded with fury," implying that he acts out of pure emotion and without any sense of rationality. Additionally, the use of personification, such as when Grendel's "shadow stretched, huge and horrible," creates an eerie and intimidating atmosphere, further emphasizing Grendel's menacing nature.

Similarly, the literary devices Edmund Spenser uses in this excerpt from his sonnet 9 convey his message about love. In this sonnet, Spenser uses the literary device of personification to represent love as a force that is beyond human control. He states, "Love is a spirit all compact of fire," implying that love is a powerful and uncontrollable force that can consume and overwhelm individuals.

Furthermore, Spenser uses metaphors to represent the various aspects of love. For instance, when he describes love as a "heavenly touch" that transforms the mundane into something extraordinary, he emphasizes the transformative power of love. He also uses similes to compare love to various natural elements, such as when he compares it to the "red rose" and the "spring's first morn," which emphasizes the beauty and vitality of love.

Overall, by using various literary devices, both authors develop their respective characters and themes in a nuanced and sophisticated manner, highlighting the power and versatility of language in literature.