Are the Monsters of Society Born Monsters?
In his novel, "Grendel", published in 1971, John Gardner retells the epic poem of Beowulf, through the eyes of the monster, Grendel.
Descendant of the Biblical Cain, Grendel is a giant monster that is feared by animals and humans. Grendel at first is curious about the world and wants companionship, but the fear and hate from people eventually lead him to become the monster he is said to be.
Grendel actively harasses the humans and wants to bring them pain and suffering.
There are many existential themes in the novel and Gardner was actually trying to point out the flaws in existential philosophy.
A major theme in the novel is that of French existential philosopher and author Jean Paul Sartre's "Bad Faith".
Sartre describes Bad Faith as the phenomenon of giving up one's own morals and ideals and adopting false values and giving up their own innate freedom.
In other words, Sartre is saying that in letting the pressures of other people control your actions, you are giving up the freedom to make your own choices in what you want to be.
What do you think followers?
Are the monsters of society born monsters, or does society make the monsters?
