Beowulf: A New Translation

by Beowulf Poet

Frederick Klaeber’s 1922 glossary defined the word used to reference Grendel’s mother, aglaec-wif, as “wretch, or monster, of a woman.” Never mind that aglaec-wif is merely the feminine form of aglaeca, which Klaeber defines as “hero” when applied to Beowulf, and “monster, demon, fiend” when referencing Grendel, his mother, and the dragon.

Whether one’s solitary status is a result of abandonment by a man or because of a choice, the reams of lore about single, self-sustaining women, and particularly about solitary elderly women, suggest that many human women have been, over the centuries, mistaken for supernatural creatures simply because they were alone and capable.

Did you send word? No! Were you invited? No! You’re not on the guest list. And, also, who’s the giant? What weapons does he hold? Oh, hell no.

Anyone who fucks with the Geats? Bro, they have to fuck with me.

Horrors happen, I’m grown, I know it. Bro, Fate can fuck you up.”