The Similarities and Differences between Grendel and Beowulf
Grendel Approach Paper
I. Grendel by John Gardner tells the story of a beast-like creature, Grendel, who is portrayed as a monstrous, violent, and cruel animal. Grendel is generally given names, referred to as the evil spawn of Cain, and even viewed as a monster. Yet, Grendel shares the same language as humans do, to try to identify and explore human nature. His curiosity leads him to examine the Danes develop into human civilization. One clan in particular becomes the most powerful, the leader being Hrothgar. He is inspired by the Shaper, a human poet whose words alter the world and inspire others, and tries to become a member of humanity yet finds himself placed against frightened men. This leads Grendel to visit a dragon that which casts a spell on him where he is impervious to weapons. The dragon’s words of wisdom make Grendel believe life is meaningless and he immediately returns to the mead hall and slaughters all men. He becomes revengeful, though remains haunted by the Shaper's remarks. While attacking many, he encounters a priest, which leads Grendel to consideration and observations on religion. He also experiences the death of the Shaper whom he gave much thought to. In the end, Beowulf arrives to the land of Scyldings, slays Grendel by ripping off his arm and brings peace to the lands among the Danes.
II. Grendel: lonely, vengeful, violent, degenerate, to regress.
Dragon: foolish, cranky, persuading, inspirational
Shaper: inspirational, psychic, renowned storyteller, wide-eyed, open-minded
III. 1. Both Grendel and Beowulf share the same story. What are the similarities and differences based on both pieces of fiction? How do they compare and contrast? 2. How does the Shaper inspire Grendel? Why is Grendel so attracted to the Shaper and to the words of the dragon? 3. In your opinion, why do you think Grendel wants to bond with human society? What is his attitude about language?
IV. Chapter 4, pg. 51 Grendel:"He told of an
I. Grendel by John Gardner tells the story of a beast-like creature, Grendel, who is portrayed as a monstrous, violent, and cruel animal. Grendel is generally given names, referred to as the evil spawn of Cain, and even viewed as a monster. Yet, Grendel shares the same language as humans do, to try to identify and explore human nature. His curiosity leads him to examine the Danes develop into human civilization. One clan in particular becomes the most powerful, the leader being Hrothgar. He is inspired by the Shaper, a human poet whose words alter the world and inspire others, and tries to become a member of humanity yet finds himself placed against frightened men. This leads Grendel to visit a dragon that which casts a spell on him where he is impervious to weapons. The dragon’s words of wisdom make Grendel believe life is meaningless and he immediately returns to the mead hall and slaughters all men. He becomes revengeful, though remains haunted by the Shaper's remarks. While attacking many, he encounters a priest, which leads Grendel to consideration and observations on religion. He also experiences the death of the Shaper whom he gave much thought to. In the end, Beowulf arrives to the land of Scyldings, slays Grendel by ripping off his arm and brings peace to the lands among the Danes.
II. Grendel: lonely, vengeful, violent, degenerate, to regress.
Dragon: foolish, cranky, persuading, inspirational
Shaper: inspirational, psychic, renowned storyteller, wide-eyed, open-minded
III. 1. Both Grendel and Beowulf share the same story. What are the similarities and differences based on both pieces of fiction? How do they compare and contrast? 2. How does the Shaper inspire Grendel? Why is Grendel so attracted to the Shaper and to the words of the dragon? 3. In your opinion, why do you think Grendel wants to bond with human society? What is his attitude about language?
IV. Chapter 4, pg. 51 Grendel:"He told of an