Beowulf Flashcards
Why is the setting (= time and place) of Beowulf significant?
The story happens in Denmark and Geatland (sweden), showing the bravery and values of the people there.
What makes a hero according to the Anglo-Saxons?
A hero, for the Anglo-Saxons, is someone brave, loyal to their leader, and does daring things like beowulfs battles.
Who is Grendel?
Grendel is a cruel and violent monster who harms and kills the warriors, but he can’t touch the throne or the treasure, possibly because God stops him from doing so.
How does Beowulf want to fight Grendel.
Beowulf chooses to confront Grendel without weapons, relying solely on hand-to-hand combat, trusting in his strength and the judgment of the Lord in this battle against Grendel.
How was the first encounter between Beowulf and Grendel?
Grendel was shock as he encounters Beowulf, realizing that Beowulf’s strength surpasses any opponent he has faced, causing Grendel to feel fear and seeking refuge among the devils, showcasing Beowulf’s overwhelming dominance over the monster.
What happened at the end of the battle?
During the battle, Beowulf grips Grendel’s hand forcefully, causing a fatal wound that shatters Grendel’s shoulder and tears his body apart, leading to Grendel’s desperate flight and eventual death, securing Beowulf’s victory and renown.
What happened in the battle between Beowulf and Grendel’s mother?
First, it shows Grendel’s mother (a devil like woman who lives in the waters) seeking revenge for her son’s death. In the battle, Beowulf dives into the water and fights Grendel’s mother. His sword initially doesn’t hurt her, but then he finds a huge sword and manages to kill her, winning the fight. He’s saved by his armor and God’s help.
What happens after Beowulf returns home?
After Beowulf ruled his kingdom for fifty years, a dragon, guarding a treasure under a stone-cliff, became enraged when someone stole from its hoard. The dragon, angered, started to attack the land, causing fear among the people.
How is the fight between Beowulf and the dragon?
In the final battle, Beowulf’s sword fails him, and he is wounded by the dragon’s fiery breath. Eventually, with one last strike, Beowulf manages to kill the dragon, but he suffers a fatal wound himself. Beowulf reflects on his life’s achievements before succumbing to his injuries and passing away.
Lyric poems
poems expressieng the personal feelings of the writer
