Could the montsers in Beowulf - Grendal, the mother and dragon represent alcoholism? If so, what passages might support that?

Hi,

Yes, these three could represent alcoholism.

In fact, there are many points in the poem which suggest that they are not physical creatures.

Because I do not have the time to go into great detail, I will try and sumarize the argument in the following points:

1. The only time "Grendel" comes is when they begin drinking.

2. There is one instance in which the armed soldiers, while intoxicated, begin boasting, ending in a bloodbath at the mead-hall.

3. Only those who leave the mead-hall survive.

4. Beowulf mentions in several different points that weapons will not work against Grendel. If the creature were physical, would these not be of use? This suggests that it is an internal warfare.

5. When he "conquers" Grendel, he states that he healed the place. If it were a physical battle, would he not say that he rescued them? Perhaps, a healing of alcoholism.

6. The people continue to drink, and the conflicts with the three continue: alcoholic addiction? An endless cycle: once an addict, always an addict.

I hope that helps.