Question

Beowulf is able to defeat evil in the form of Grendel and Grendel's mother, yet he loses his life. What theme does this suggest about the struggle between good and evil?

Answer 1

A possible theme would be that the struggle between good and evil often results in a Pyrrhic victory.

The word "Pyrrhic" refers to the results of the conflict, where the victor's losses are almost as great as those sustained by the conquered. In a Pyrrhic victory, there is the sense that the victor's gains have been nullified by the extreme losses incurred. If you're interested, please refer to the link below about the origins of...