Final answer:
The original text of Beowulf provides little description of Grendel's appearance, aside from 4) a reference to his monstrous nature, which adds to his menacing presence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The only clue to Grendel's physical appearance in the original text of Beowulf is 4) a reference to his monstrous nature.
This lack of detailed description leaves much to the imagination, allowing for various interpretations of Grendel's looks.
Unlike in descriptive passages where a character's physical attributes, size, and strength are chronicled, or their facial features and expressions are described in detail.
Beowulf's Grendel remains more abstract, often depicted as a creature of darkness, evil, and terror, contributing to the overall sense of menace and the unknown he represents to the Danes.