Journal 6

  Trace Grendel’s philosophical journey in Gardner’s Grendel using the cycle of astrology for clues. End this response by stating Grendel’s evolved philosophy. In other words, what is Grendel’s philosophy at the end of his narrative?

     In John Gardner’s Beowulf, Gardner assigns one astrological zodiac sign to each chapter. Gardener parallels the progression of the year and the behavior of the characters with traits of corresponding zodiac signs and references the chapters’ zodiac signs at least once each. The signs are particularly important for understanding the main character, Grendel, because his general philosophy on how to behave changes dramatically with progression of the story and the signs are often indicative of . However, the book does not revolve around this zodiac motif, this theme more present in some parts of the book more than others.

      The zodiac signs that represent the first couple chapters are Aries and Taurus. These symbols appear during the spring, which is symbolic of growth and youth, and were used by Gardner to emphasize Grendel’s early development. Aires is associated with intolerance, impatience, and ambition which are all defining qualities of Grendel when he is introduced. Chapter 2 builds up on the theme of growth by showing Grendel’s first experience in the human world. Taurus, the sign that represent’s chapter 2, is characterized by dependability, protectiveness, and persistence, which are all traits that are reflected in both the relationship between the bull and its young and the relationship between Grendel and his mother.

     The chapters that lead into summer show Grendel as he develops further, focusing more on change. The third chapter shows Grendel as begins his relationship with poetry, overlapping with the sign of Gemini which is related to an affiliation with literature and intelligence. Gemini is also symbolic for internal conflict, like the conflict Grendel deals with by acknowledging his vulnerability to poetry. Chapter 4 shows Grendel continuing to observe poetry and reacting strongly when the sharper mention’s Grendel’s evil nature as a descendant of Cain. This corresponds to the sign Cancer, which is related to sensitivity and moodiness. Grendel meets the dragon in chapter 5, who displays traits of Leo like flamboyance, pride, and charisma. The dragon had a profound influence on Grendel, convincing Grendel to terrorize the village and giving Grendel a confidence boost through his apparent charm.

     Fall comes and the seasons as well as the zodiac signs reflect maturity. Chapter 6 is represented by Virgo, with Grendel beginning his war on Hrothgar’s Kingdom and Unferth being introduced in the chapter. Virgo represents logical thinking and being overcritical, both traits which appear in this chapter. Once Grendel notices his charm, Grendel decides that it is his job to terrorize the town based on his conversation with the dragon. He takes particular interest in Unferth, who is a self proclaimed hero who intends to kill Grendel and save the village. Grendel reacts by cruelly criticizing Unferth and trying to convince him that his heroic efforts are in vain. Chapter 7 introduces Weatheow, who personifies the chapter’s zodiac sign, Libra. Wealtheow is graceful, and does her best to maintain peace, especially when she marries Hrothgar to prevent war between him and Hygmod. Chapter 8 is represented by Scorpio and features Hrothulf who characterizes Scorpio’s traits of truthfulness with his attitude toward government and mysteriousness.

       The story’s final chapters take place during the winter. Chapter 9 expands on Grendel’s psychological profile, being represented by both philosophical and religious thinking. Grendel meets a priest that believes Grendel to be a deity named “the great destroyer” and he discusses his philosophical views to Grendel. Next chapter is represented by Capricorn and has Grendel watching the village sharper die of some illness. The next chapter features Aquarius, the water bearer. Water has a strong presence in this chapter, with Beowulf arriving by sea and Wealtheow pouring mead for everyone when the Geats arrive. Also, Grendel is really tense in the chapter, and this is fitting because Aquarius is symbolic of anxiety. The book ends with Pieces, which features Grendel’s defeat at the hand of Beowulf.  Pieces symbolizes sensitivity and sympathy, which is apparent during the fight between Grendel and Beowulf, when Beowulf gains the upper hand on Grendel and Grendel’s main reaction is to try feebly to escape.