The dragon informs Grendel that he serves as humanity's "brute existent," a necessary adversary against which humans define their existence, and that his attempts to change or improve himself are meaningless.
The Dragon's Vision of Grendel's Existence
The dragon, an ancient and cynical creature, reveals a profound, albeit unsettling, truth about Grendel's inherent nature and purpose in the world. His insights highlight a deterministic view of Grendel's existence, suggesting a fixed role that he cannot escape.
Grendel's Predetermined Purpose: "Brute Existent"
According to the dragon, Grendel's primary function is to be humanity's "brute existent." This designation implies that Grendel is not merely a random monster but a fundamental, even essential, element in the human experience.
- The Necessary Adversary: Grendel's role is to serve as the enemy against which humans will ultimately define their own identity, values, and virtues. Without a clear and formidable antagonist like Grendel, humanity might lack the external opposition needed to forge its collective spirit and sense of self.
- A Catalyst for Human Definition: By providing a constant threat, Grendel inadvertently drives human civilization to innovate, organize, and develop, acting as a dark catalyst for their progress and self-awareness.
The Futility of Self-Improvement
The dragon also emphatically dismisses any notion of Grendel being able to transcend his assigned role or improve himself.
- Fixed Nature: The dragon scoffs at Grendel's aspirations for change or betterment, asserting that Grendel is inextricably bound by his inherent, monstrous nature. His efforts to alter his being are portrayed as pointless.
- No Escape from Destiny: From the dragon's expansive, cosmic perspective, Grendel is confined to his specific, often terrifying, purpose. He cannot escape the fate of being the "other," the dark mirror essential for humanity to recognize its own form.
Summary of Dragon's Revelations to Grendel
| Aspect of Grendel's Self | Dragon's Revelation |
|---|---|
| Core Purpose | To be humanity's "brute existent" |
| Role in Human World | The essential enemy against whom man defines himself |
| Capacity for Change | Unable to change or improve; attempts are futile and scoffed at |
