The Truth

      Within the chapters of the novel, Grendel, by John Gardner, each character begins to uncover their truth. I would specifically like to focus on the truths of King Hrothgar. He has come to the realization that he has aged and the strength he'd once obtained in his youth is no longer prevalent. The only power he has is his mind. The town he once had big hopes for is now in shambles and because of him being in the position of hierarchy he is wearing a giant target on his back for marauders seeking both his gold and his "crown". Its one thing for him to accept that his life is taking a turn for the worse but its another for him to realize that he is ruining the life of his wife. In his words,Wealtheow, "need not have withered her nights and wasted her body on a bony shivering wretch...[she] could have served a more vigorous man". Although she may not speak much or communicate with Hrothgar she is very aware of his troubles. She knows that he doesn't want jeopardize his fame, he yearns to be remembered past his days on earth, he is resentful of his aging years and his search for peace has led him to "no final prospect but failure".The king has definitely uncovered his truth.