Examples Of The Shaper In Grendel

Language is a means for communication. Effective use of language means effective communication. This is taken a step further when one begins to use persuasive language. The idea of persuasive language is too change the opinion of another and make convince them that another opinion is actually more valid. Grendel by John Gardner is a novel in which a beast known as Grendel transforms from a young playful creature, into a cynical monster. Grendel has one particular influence along the way which emphasizes the importance of persuasive language. Gardner demonstrates the potency of persuasion by the way of the Shaper and his use of language throughout Grendel. By the example of the Shaper, Gardner demonstrates that persuasion is a very powerful way to use language. Throughout chapter four and the entirety of Grendel the Shaper has a profound impact on Grendel. The Shaper is able to misconstrue reality and convince Grendel and the rest of the Danes of false truths. This ultimately infuriates Grendel because although he is being lied to and knows he is being lied to, he still believes the Shapers tales as seen on page …show more content…
It certainly is reasonable to call the Shaper a sophist because the Shaper is less concerned of singing with the truth, and more concerned with pleasing his audience, even if he has to alter reality. Grendel seems to scorn sophism because he calls the Shaper’s words “ridiculous” and “infecting” yet ultimately powerful (Gardner 48, 49). Gardner seems to conclude through Grendel that sophist ideals can be effective, yet they are of course not always logical. Grendel is a character that believes only in logical things and Gardner uses him as a negative example. Through the fourth priest and Beowulf, Gardner shows that Grendel’s belief in logic and only logic is flawed. In this way, Gardner is playing with the idea of sophism as a legitimate method of