82 pages • 2 hours read
Grendel
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
Scandinavia • Medieval Era
1971
Adult
14-18 years
860L
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.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
41,906 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
41,906 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
192
Novel • Fiction
Scandinavia • Medieval Era
1971
Adult
14-18 years
860L
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