Keywords
Beowulf
textual criticism
inwitþancum
narrative perspective
How to Cite
Abstract
In the passage that depicts the conflict between Beowulf and Grendel, the hero’s determination to fight with the monster is described in terms of the compound inwitþancum (749a). The term inwit is generally understood to imply “malice, deceit.” However, its application to Beowulf has been the subject of considerable debate, with various interpretations of the compound being proposed. Many editors and translators of the epic have sought to provide the compound inwitþancum with neutral or positive interpretations that diverge to some extent from its original meaning. Others avoid the negative image of Beowulf by associating inwitþancum with Grendel’s malicious intentions or with Grendel himself. In the present paper, I shall revisit one of the Beowulfian cruxes and attempt to present a new alternative reading with reference to multiple perspectives of the Beowulf poet.
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