What are the 3 evils in the epic poem Beowulf?
Grendel, Grendel’s mother, the dragon
What are the elements in the epic poem Beowulf?
pagan and Christian
What are the magnificent monsters of Beowulf derived from?
trolls
What is happening at Herot when the story begins?
Hrothgar and his men are celebrating by praising god and creation. Grendel is a demon and cannot stand the sound of prayers, hymns, etc.
What does Grendel do to the people at Herot?
kills them and eats them
Why does the watchman ask Beowulf about his father?
A warrior’s reputation was based on his father’s reputation. If his father was honorable, he would also be viewed as honorable.
How does Beowulf plan on killing Grendel?
with his bare hands
Why are Beowulf’s men unable to help Beowulf kill Grendel?
They are using swords and Grendel has a spell on him that prevents man made weapons from harming him.
What does Beowulf hang from the rafters as proof that Grendel is dead?
Grendel’s arm
Describe the lake/marsh where Grendel and his mother lived.
steam like black clouds, snake-like roots, the lake is on fire, the lake is bottomless, animals would rather die on the shore than enter the water to save themselves.
What is the first thing that happens to Beowulf when he reaches the bottom of the lake?
Grendel’s mother attacks him.
What are the differences between the battle with Grendel’s mother and Grendel?
Beowulf’s motivation to kill Grendel is selfless because he wants to help the Danes. His motivation to kill Grendel’s mother is fame. The fight with Grendel is easier for Beowulf, whereas he struggles during his fight with Grendel’s mother. He is able to hurt Grendel with his bare hands, but needs a sword made by giants to harm Grendel’s mother.
What does Beowulf use to slay Grendel’s mother?
A sword made by giants. He cuts off her head.
What two things does Beowulf bring back from the monsters’ lair?
Grendel’s head and the hilt/handle of the sword made by giants.
How long has Beowulf been King in Geatland?
50 years
What is Beowulf’s main reason for fighting the dragon?
treasure and gold
Describe the battle between Beowulf and the dragon.
Beowulf is burned. His shield melts. His sword breaks. He is mortally wounded.
What do Beowulf’s men do when he needs them the most?
they run away
What does Beowulf ask Wiglaf to get from the dragon’s tower?
the dragon’s treasure
What does Beowulf ask Wiglaf to do with his ashes?
build a tower
What countries are included in British literature?
England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales
