John Gardner's "Grendel"

Analytical Essay # 26103

English > Analysis
English > Comparison
Literature > American
Literature > German

Examines this retelling of the famous Beowulf saga.

1,800 words () | 4 sources | APA | 2002 Canada

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the classic literary saga Beowulf whose theme is the concept of ultimate good battling and vanquishing ultimate evil. The paper focuses on the retelling of the story through American author John Gardner's 1971 novel "Grendel" which presents the monster Grendel in a different light and not as the grim and unhappy spirit he is usually portrayed.

From the Paper:

"Perhaps for this reason, Grendel has become almost as much a subject for discourse as Beowulf himself has. Editorial commenting in the numerous translations and interpretations of the poem have often included comments on the man monster. The many books and articles written on the poem usually include passages of chapters about him, his actions, motivations and personalities. Almost all of these works are usually written within the context of the poem, that is in direct relation to the hero Beowulf himself, "Grendel acts in such a manner because Beowulf does" is the usual rule followed."