Beowulf Flashcards
Where do we see examples of fate mixed with Christianity in the prologue?
Shild changed his fate and then was blessed with a son from God.
Who is Hrothgar?
He is a descendant of Shild and the last king we are introduced to in the prologue.
What is Hrothgar’s major accomplishment in the introduction of the poem?
He led the Danes to glory and built the great hall called Herot for the soldiers to celebrate and divide the spoils of war.
Why is the biblical allusion to Cain important?
It shows where Grendel’s evil comes from. Cain was the first murderer. Grendel is a descendent of Cain.
What is Grendel’s grievance against Hrothgar and Herot?
He is in pain as he listens to them sing about God and his creations because he is not allowed to partake in them.
What object does Grendel avoid during his nightly visits to Herot? Why?
Hrothgar’s throne because it is protected by God.
Why are the Danes unable to stop Grendel’s attacks, according to the narrator?
They were sacrificing to the old stone gods. They sought help from hell instead of God’s help.
What is the narrator’s advice to readers facing their own struggles?
Go to God for help and seek peace.
Beowulf is granted permission to travel to the Danes. Why? What element of fate is involved in decision?
The omens are the element of fate involved. The wise men gathered together and said the omens were good and let him go.
What accomplishments does Beowulf list to Hrothgar?
He has rose from war dripping with enemies blood. He drove 5 great giants into chains. He killed 9 sea monsters over 7 days.
What is the history between Hrothgar and Beowulf’s father?
Beowulf’s father killed Hathlaf causing a feud. His country would not let him back in because they didn’t want war. Hrothgar sent treasurers to the Wulfings to pay for Hathlaf’s life that Edgetho had taken. Edgetho promised to keep peace.
Who is Unferth and how does he feel about Beowulf?
Unferth thinks he is the best and thinks that Beowulf is a fool. He is angry that Beowulf is known for glory and fame greater than his.
What accusations does Unferth make?
He says he won’t be able to kill Grendel. He says that he lost against Brecca.
How does Beowulf respond to Unferth’s accusations?
He says that Unferth killed his brother and he also said that he hasn’t heard any stories of Unferth winning anything.
What is Beowulf’s belief concerning fate?
Fate will weed out who is supposed to win the battle.
