Question

When Grendel says Hrothgar's "warriors became hornets" (40), what literary device is being used?

Answer 1

Grendel's statement about Hrothgar's warriors becoming hornets is an example of a simile.

Step-by-step explanation:

The literary device being used when Grendel says Hrothgar's 'warriors became hornets' is simile. A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using the words 'like' or 'as'. In this case, Grendel is comparing Hrothgar's warriors to hornets, emphasizing their ferocity and aggressiveness in battle. The simile helps to create a vivid image in the reader's mind, highlighting the warriors' transformation into powerful and formidable adversaries.

Answer 2

The device used here is metaphor. Hrothgar’s men do not become hornets but they fight with the ferocity of hornets whose nest was bothered. Even if Grendel is impervious to their weapons, they fight to defend what is theirs. Later on, Grendel would feel the pain he inflicted on others when he fought Beouwulf.