Discussion Of 'Monster In Grendel' By Josh Gardner

What makes a monster? In media, monsters are often portrayed as terrifying beings that wreak havoc wherever they go. In fact, the definition of monster is “a strange or horrible and often frightening creature” (“Monster”). However, monsters are not always so easy to identify – they exist in virtually every community in society. If to be strange or horrible is to be a monster, then, in a slightly more abstract line of thinking, humans can also be monsters. This is because, while humans are often thought of as converse from monsters, they exhibit several characteristics that could categorize them as monstrous. This expansion on the term ‘monster’ is portrayed in the novel, Grendel, written by Josh Gardner. In it, the reader sees the world through the point of view of Grendel, a giant bear-like beast. Through his first-hand experience, it is learned that Grendel was not always so malicious. The isolation and misunderstanding he faced from the humans, especially because of his physical difference, was what drove him to hate them. It is also through this that one begins to observe the wicked qualities present in humans. Because of this, one can

He also explains that they destroy nature and that animals cower in fear of them. This is interesting because it can be considered a parallel to the relationship between Grendel and the humans, as Grendel considers himself steps ahead of the idiotic humans, who cower before him. Similarly, humans consider themselves superior to the animals, and would be considered their tormentors. In addition, during his many thought processes, Grendel explains how humans treat each other and mentions their murderous ways or how they partake in several apparently mindless acts of violence. In this way, humans also embody many characteristics that could lead to their classification as