Grendel is described as a 'powerful monster living down in the darkness, growled in pain' (Beowulf). He has been cursed by god to live a tragic life. He stole a hall from Hrothgar's men and turned into what is described as a Hell on Earth.
The Wrath of Grendel
Grendel
Beowulf
The Coming of Beowulf
Hrothgar
Beowulf speaks to Hrothgar's guard. He proclaims he has heard stories about Herot and Grendel and he has put a group of men together to go defeat him. He is then allowed to see Hrothgar and lets him know of his intentions.
Guard
The Battle with Grendel
Grendel attempts attacking Beowulf and his men while they're asleep. He goes to attack Beowulf who wakes up and restrains him. Beowulf then defeats him in a battle to the death.
Beowulf finds out about Grendel's mother's liar at the bottom of a lake. He swims into the lake and is found but none of the sea monsters can get through his armor. He then tries attacking her with a sword but can't due to her skin so he defeats her bare-handedly.
The Monsters Lair and The Battle with Grendel's Mother
Grendel's Mother
Beowulf
Beowulf fights his last battle against a Dragon. When he is fighting the dragon melts his shield with fire. He slices the dragon but it is ultimately not deep enough and the dragon's scales break his sword. He is defeated and killed.
Beowulf
The Last Battle
Dragon
The Spoils and The Farewell
Wiglaf
Wiglaf comforts his King during his final moments. The treasure the Dragon was guarding is left buried since it is all old and rusted. The kingdom mourns Beowulf's death and a tower is erected in his honor. He believes he has died a noble death for his people.