1. Beowulf
Notes

2. The Wrath of Grendel
Epic: a long narrative poem, sometimes developed orally, that celebrates heroic deeds and legendary events
Epic hero: a larger-than-life character
The poem begins with two allusions to Biblical stories. Which stories are these?
How are the descriptions of Herot and Grendel’s home different?
How many men does Grendel kill on his first trip to Herot?
Why does Grendel hate the inhabitants of Herot?

3. The Wrath of Grendel
How many years did Grendel plague Hrothgar’s people?
What is the one object Grendel would never touch? Why?
What are some of the avenues Hrothgar tried in order to get rid of Grendel?

4. The Coming of Beowulf
Why does the sentinel hail Beowulf as a hero before knowing who he is?
What are the feats of strength Beowulf shares with Hrothgar to prove he is worthy to help Hrothgar?
Why does Beowulf decide to fight Grendel without weapons?
Is Beowulf afraid to die?

5. The Battle with Grendel
List a few kennings used to describe Grendel in this section.
What happens when Grendel grabs Beowulf?
Which details from this description of the battle between Beowulf and Grendel add realism? Which details add epic grandness?
How does Beowulf’s battle with Grendel end?

6. The Monster’s Lair
What details in this passage give Grendel’s home an eerie feel?

7. The Battle with Grendel’s Mother
What requests does Beowulf make before he dives into the lake?
What protects Beowulf from Grendel’s mother’s claws?
Why do Beowulf’s companions think he is dead?

8. The Last Battle How does Beowulf plan to fight the dragon?
In your words, paraphrase the events of Beowulf’s battle with the dragon.
According to Wiglaf, what is Beowulf’s relationship with his followers?