Grendel In John Gardner's Analysis

In John Gardner’s Grendel, Grendel evolves from being solely an isolated individual to a character that has exposed themselves to various outside influences. Extending the analogy from the Allegory of the Cave by Plato, we see that Grendel was an isolated and hindered soul, bound by the miniscule world he knew to be true. Like the Allegory, Grendel breaks free from his chamber to explore the world he was restricted from. Through Grendel’s course to enlightenment there are several stages in which he undergoes, as he attempts to define himself. From initial uncertainty, Grendel in the end gets a clear image of who he is and what he represents, but not without a journey of struggles.

From the start of Chapters one and two, Grendel is merely exposed to the influence of the humans. Perplexed by the nature of their movements and thought …show more content…
Dazzled by the humans oath and dedication in serving a higher faith can be found evident in chapter one. Grendel makes note that, “ Inside I hear people praying...to their numerous sticks and stones” (Gardner page 13). By this we see Grendel take an interest in the humans obligation to serve a higher power. The exposure to pagainstic ways opens Grendel's perspective on life, meaning and who he is, even if he doesn't agree with the taboo. Furthermore, the next significant change in Grendel’s psyche and subconscious thoughts occur when he meets with the Dragon in chapter 5 of the novel. The Dragon being almighty and dominant, asserts himself upon Grendel. Grendel, looking for answers and meaning to the importances of his existence and life, walks away far more unsure of his life and legacy after the talk with the Dragon. The Dragon warns Grendel of pursuing a grander image, for it will end