Although these three stories share some similar lessons and main ideas, one aspect stands out to me more than others. In each, you will find a women that has a very strong effect on the main character. In Macbeth, you have his wife, which is a strong motivator for many of his actions, including the murder of King Duncan. In Beowulf, the queen has the same power, but opposite to lady macbeth, she has the ability to keep peace. If you look at the story Grendel, his mother is the one who has power, and shapes many of his thoughts and feelings, which is a main topic in the story. These influential female figures from all three stories greatly shape the plot of the story, and the actions of the main characters.