1. 1. The Question
Is the epic poem “Beowulf” an accurate representation of Anglo-Saxon society?
To answer this question, you must read the parts of “Beowulf” in your textbook and then information on the internet.

2. 2. The Information Sources
You will refer to your text book and internet sources to see if Anglo-Saxon life as represented in the epic poem “Beowulf” gives you a good view of actual life in an Anglo-Saxon community.
An understanding of Anglo-Saxon society will add to your appreciation of “Beowulf.” As you read the poem, pay close attention to the descriptions of food, shelter, definition of a hero, the role of women and religion. Then your next job will be to see how the descriptions in the poem mesh with actual Anglo-Saxon life.

3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 3. The Student Activity Food & Drink Shelter Role of Women
Using in the copy of “Beowulf in your textbook and the information on Anglo-Saxons in your textbook and in the websites below, complete the following chart.
Food &
Drink
Shelter
Definition
Of a
Hero
Role of
Women
Religion
Anglo-
Saxons
Beowulf

4. 4. The Assessment Activity
Using the information from your research that you have collected in your table, write an essay explaining why or why not “Beowulf” gives us a accurate portrayal of Anglo-Saxon life

5. 5. Enrichment Activities
If you are interested in learning more about the Anglo-Saxons or Beowulf, here are some more sites you can visit.
csis.pace.edu/grendel/projs4a/be1.htm

6. 6. Teacher Support Materials – State Standards
Arkansas Language Arts Standards Grade 12 W
Communicate clearly the purpose of the writing W
Write clear and varied sentences W
Elaborate ideas clearly and accurately through word choice, vivid description, and selected information R
Analyze and evaluate how works of a given period reflect author’s background, historical events, and cultural influences