Discussion Questions and Characters Beowulf Discussion Questions and Characters

Setting Denmark and Sweden

Herot mead hall/banqueting hall

Hrothgar King of Danes

Grendel 1st swamp monster to invade Descendent of Cain bearing “mark of Cain”

Unferth Danish warrior who taunted Beowulf

Beowulf Hero – leader of the Geats

Brecca Young man in a swimming contest with Beowulf

Welthow Danish queen

Higlac King of Geats Beowulf’s uncle

Edgetho Beowulf’s father

Wiglaf Beowulf’s faithful follower

“The Coming of Grendel” 1. How might the location of Grendel’s marsh be symbolic? 2. How does the poet’s description of the monster Grendel and his deeds create an atmosphere of evil? Cite specific examples from the poem. 3. Give three examples of kennings. Explain what each one means and whom it describes.

“The Coming of Beowulf” / “Unferth’s Taunt” 1. How does the poem portray Beowulf as an epic hero? 2. In what ways does Beowulf typify epic poetry? 3. Give three examples of kennings. Explain what each one means and whom it describes.

“The Battle with Grendel” In what ways is Beowulf’s encounter with Grendel similar to other man-monster clashes you’ve read about or seen on television or in the movies? How is it different? Beowulf does not spring into action until after Grendel kills one of the sleeping Geats. Why does Beowulf not act immediately, so as to spare the Geat’s life? Why does Beowulf hang Grendel’s arm from the rafters of Herot? How important is Beowulf to the fate of Denmark?

“The Battle with Grendel’s Mother” Why does Grendel’s Mother take and kill one of the Danes? Explain the significance of the “single victim” that she chooses. What details of the setting help to create an ominous mood? What happens during the battle with Grendel’s mother? Compare the two monsters. Does the behavior of Grendel’s mother seem as wicked or unreasonable as Grendel’s behavior? Support our opinion with evidence from the text.

“The Fight with the Fire Dragon” Do you think the poet wants to depict the battle as a contest of equals, or does he view Beowulf as the underdog? Explain. How is Wiglaf different from his comrades? Does Wiglaf qualify as an epic hero? Why or why not? What happens to Beowulf in this battle?

Pagan vs. Christian Elements Create a chart for each section of the epic and identify specific lines that represent references to paganism, mythology, or Fate. Create a chart for each section of the epic and identify specific lines that represent references to or the influence of Christianity.

Loyalty Identify specific instances of loyalty and of disloyalty throughout the epic of Beowulf.

Life’s Journey Trace the growth of the character of Beowulf throughout his childhood, adulthood, and old age. Note any changes in his character, in his attitude, and in his abilities. What lessons does Beowulf learn about himself and about life?

Compare Beowulf’s Battles