Daniel Liu, Period 9, 3/6/23

Daniel Liu 

Period 6

Modern Mythology

Literacy & Learning

Write about your thoughts regarding any of the fiction or nonfiction covered in class.

The novel Grendel gave me a new perspective on the philosophies of nihilism and what purpose or meaning my life has in the universe. The journey Grendel goes through in the novel symbolizes the human struggle to find meaning in life. Grendel begins his journey as a naive monster that is simultaneously fascinated and disgusted by humans. The Shaper presents the idea that the world is interconnected and purposeful, and that there is something greater than themselves to strive for. Grendel knows that this is a lie, but is nevertheless drawn to the Shapers' ideas. The dragon is a stark contrast to the Shaper, and believes that everything is inherently meaningless in the grand scheme of things, representing cynicism and nihilism. 

Grendel struggles with these philosophies and his own nature, being both human and monsterlike. 

Throughout the novel, we see Grendel transform from a one dimensional monster to a sophisticated being that has a deeper understanding of the world, perhaps even more so than a human. He ultimately accepts his role as a monster, but still is alone in this world. Grendel exists as a being rejected by mankind, but also not a true monster like his mother. 

Grendel's interactions with the various characters (that represent different ideologies) in the novel are what shape him. Grendel's journey reflects the human journey to find meaning in existence. We all begin with naivety, and then discover systems of thought that provide meaning (like the Shapers beliefs or religion). We also learn about the apparent pointlessness of existence and nihilistic beliefs (like the dragon). We can either choose to believe we have a purpose, that life is meaningless, or lie somewhere in between. 

Reflect on any new information you have learned in English class by considering how that learning influences your critical perception.

How is what you’re learning applied to any other classes/the world around you?

The ideas presented in Grendel really changed the way I view life. Before reading the novel, I was a bit of a nihilist. I believed that inherently, there is no meaning to life or existence, and that any belief systems, religions, or ways to find purpose were just coping mechanisms to make people feel better about their lives. Reading Grendel made me understand that I didn’t have to subscribe to one idea or another, that even If I realize that in the grand scheme of things, everything doesn’t matter, you can still live purposefully. Since nothing matters, what makes life meaningful is the recognition that because there is no inherent meaning, all things and moments are equally meaningful. Living in the present, in the here and now is the only way you can truly enjoy what life has to offer. Yes, eventually everything will end sometime or later, but until then, the only thing we can do is strive towards something. Time will pass either way, but we can either choose to do nothing or do something with our lives. The beauty of life is that it's temporary.