John Gardner's Grendel serves as a prelude to the eighth century epic poem, Beowulf. The novel's content is largely philosophical, based on all-encompassing themes of humanity and isolation. Gardner drew inspiration from Jean-Paul Sartre's Being and Nothingness, which provides a basis for existential elements in the text.
While this novel is an excellent companion to Beowulf, it presents a high level of complexity to readers because of its philosophical nature. Before students begin reading, it may be helpful to prepare a lesson on existentialism, nihilism, anarchism, and other philosophical themes Gardner weaves throughout the story.
Students must be familiar with Beowulf in order to have a full understanding of Gardner's novel. As an exercise, students should draw parallels between the poem and the novel. Open discussion will provide rich and nuanced interpretations of both texts.
Summary
In his 1971 prequel to Beowulf, John Gardner explores the nature of one of literature's most famous villains. Inspired by philosophy and existential theory, the author gives depth to Grendel's character, showing that Grendel is not quite the monster that everyone knows him to be. Grendel's isolation and his intelligent musings evoke insight into the nature of existence and mankind.