Because it is a long narrative poem, the mood shifts
throughout the work, depending on the action or purpose of each scene. It is certainly
a mood of terror and suspense when Grendal attacks the mead-hall and kills yet another
of Hrothgar's men, and a somber mood the next day when the men view the aftermath of
what happened the night before. It is a perhaps cautious mood of relief when Beowulf
shows up and announces that he has come to battle with the monster. Hrothgar and his
people are wearied by the constant attacks, but chagrined that they themselves have not
been able to stop Grendal and now are getting help from an
outsider.
During the battles with Grendal and Grendal's
mother there is a mood of suspense and energy. We are pretty sure we know Beowulf will
win, but how? When? There is a moment when his men think he may have failed, and the
mood is somber, until Beowulf returns from the battle in joyful
triumph!
After the battles there is a mood of joyful
celebration and of giving thanks for Beowulf's heroism. The party is light-hearted and
the sentiments expressed between Beowulf and Hrothgar are heartfelt and sincere, which
adds a dignity to the mood of the party.
At the end of the
tale, at Beowulf's funeral, there is certainly a solemn mood over the people as they
respectfully honor their fallen King and mourn his passing.
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