What is the outcome of Beowulf’s battle with Grendel?

In the epic poem "Beowulf," the outcome of Beowulf's battle with Grendel is significant in establishing his heroism. After hearing about the attacks on Heorot, Beowulf sets out to fight Grendel without weapons. He uses his bare hands to grapple with Grendel, who is so powerful that no weapon could harm him. In the end, Beowulf tears off Grendel's arm, and Grendel flees to his lair, where he later dies. The poem describes Beowulf's victory as a triumph of strength, skill, and courage.

The battle with Grendel marks the beginning of Beowulf's journey as a hero. The poem establishes him as a formidable warrior, capable of defeating a monster with his bare hands. Beowulf's victory is also significant because it sets up the subsequent battle with Grendel's mother, which is even more challenging. Additionally, the aftermath of the battle with Grendel is important because it highlights the difference between Beowulf and the previous warriors who failed to defeat Grendel. While the previous warriors celebrated their victories with drinking and boasting, Beowulf's victory is marked by his humility and respect for his fallen foe.

The outcome of the battle with Grendel also sets up the poem's themes of heroism, the struggle between good and evil, and the inevitability of death. Grendel represents a destructive force that threatens the peace and security of the community, and Beowulf's victory over him establishes him as a defender of his people. However, Grendel's death also sets up the conflict with his mother and, ultimately, the dragon, which Beowulf must also face. Furthermore, Beowulf's victory over Grendel is not without cost, as he sustains a wound that will eventually lead to his death. The poem emphasizes the transitory nature of life and the inevitability of death, even for heroes.