Two Monsters

Literary works are a product of their time period and the works are influenced heavily by the ideals and beliefs present during the era. The monsters an era produces reflect underlying cultural aspects and the characteristics attributed to a monster embody the social anxieties and stresses of the time. Grendel is one of a few monsters to transcend the barrier of time and become portrayed in different time periods and reflect the aspects of two different cultural influences. Grendel’s development in each portrayal shows distinct aspects influenced by the time period and changes in the human ideology. These cultural differences can be investigated through Grendel’s portrayal in both Beowulf and the story Grendel by John Gardner.

               Beowulf ‘s portrayal of Grendel shows interesting perceptions of evil for the time period. The writing is infused with sacred references and Grendel is portrayed as demonic. He attacks without reason or mercy. These aspects indicate the time period viewed evil as a presence outside of human control. Horrible events were attributed to God’s greater plan and humans are portrayed as helpless in the face of these obstacles. Only Beowulf is able to defeat Grendel and it’s only through God’s will that he has the ability to vanquish the evil. Beowulf doesn’t defeat Grendel using any weapons or protection and this furthers the idea of God’s will being the predominant reason for Grendel’s demise. Grendel acts as a venue to portray human weakness and reinforce the power of God.

               Grendel develops in Gardner’s Grendel and is illustrated as an antihero. He is instead humanized and shown to be capable of rational contemplation and deeper analyses. He is no longer portrayed as demonic but rather Grendel is perceived as an oddity, an individual with a unique perception. He is ostracized and alone because of his differences. These differences reflect the nihilistic views of the time period. Nihilism was still developing and not a widely accepted philosophy and Grendel helps to portray these underlying struggles behind the philosophy. Grendel’s relationship with his mother furthers the nihilistic undertones in his portrayal. He is detached and indifferent to her and yet she completely describes his existence because she is his only relationship. The portrayal of Grendel as a unique individual with human qualities brings to light the complexities facing the nihilistic movement during the time period.

               Each of these depictions of Grendel helps to bring to light underlying social conflicts of their respective time periods.