Final answer:
Grendel sticks to the mere-ba|l due to a curse from the gods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Grendel sticks to the mere-ba|l due to a curse from the gods. In the epic poem Beowulf, Grendel is depicted as a descendant of Cain, who was cursed by God for killing his own brother. As a result of this curse, Grendel is fated to commit acts of violence and be eternally banished from human society. The mere-ba|l represents a sanctuary or safe space for Grendel, where he can escape the curse and hide from the heroic figures like Beowulf.