82 pages • 2 hours read
John GardnerGrendel
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1971A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In John Gardner’s Grendel, the monster Grendel recounts his life and encounters with humans in a nonlinear narrative, revealing his existential angst and philosophical reflections. Raised in a cave by his non-verbal mother, Grendel discovers his terrifying nature and begins terrorizing Hrothgar’s kingdom. Dialogue with a dragon deepens his existential crisis, leading him to question the meaning of life and his role in it.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Grendel by John Gardner transforms the Beowulf story, providing a philosophical and introspective look into the monster Grendel’s psyche. Praised for its lyrical prose and existential themes, some readers find its philosophical nature dense. While appreciated for its unique perspective, others feel the narrative can be slow. Engaging for those interested in literary retellings.
Who Should Read Grendel?
Readers who relish philosophical introspection and dark, contemporary takes on classic tales will enjoy John Gardner's Grendel. Similar to fans of Albert Camus' The Stranger and Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis, they will appreciate the novel's existential themes and anti-heroic perspective.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
860L