Henry Miller, an American semi-autobiographical novelist, once said, “Life has to be given a meaning because of the obvious fact that it has no meaning.” This is part of the Shaper’s philosophy in the novel, Grendel, by John Gardner. Although most of the Shaper’s stories are inaccurate, he provides the Danes with several reasons, such as love and glory, to live in a rather meaningless world. On the other hand, the dragon argues there is no purpose to life under any circumstances. In the beginning of the novel, the young monster Grendel is a naïve child who only knows his incompetent mother. Once cognizant of the world, he struggles to discover his identity and purpose, thus he is susceptible to the persuasion of others whom give him an answer. Therefore, the …show more content…
The Shaper’s viewpoint on the meaning of life is one way he alters Grendel. In the beginning of the novel, Grendel is greatly affected by the Shaper in various ways. Grendel becomes addicted to the Shaper’s beautiful and enchanting songs played on his harp about the Dane’s glorious, however false, stories and promising future. After recalling the Dane’s splendor in the way the Shaper desires, Grendel thinks, “I was so filled with sorrow and tenderness I could hardly have found it in my heart to snatch a pig” (Gardner 44)! The Shaper does not mention that it is the Dane’s brutal tendencies that will make them glorious and respected. It is those very lies that cause Grendel to feel remorseful for his murderous behavior. Later in the novel Grendel even asks the dragon, “Why shouldn’t one change one’s ways, improves one’s character” (Gardner 72)? Thus, the Shaper persuades Grendel to want to become a better individual. Another influence is the Shaper’s beautiful art and glorious ideas attempt to convince Grendel that life is meaningful. Painting a picture of a