Yr9 - Exam Essay Flashcards
Outline intro.
In the book, Beowulf: Dragonslayer by Rosemary Sutcliff, Beowulf is a very interesting character. Beowulf is interesting because
Outline P1.
an interesting character because he displays loyalty throughout his whole life - Beowulf first showed loyalty in his earlier life when he said, ‘under threat of war or for any other cause, just send me word and I will come with a thousand warriors at my back”. - shows Beowulf’s loyalty to Hygelac, that, even after killing Grendal and the Sea Hag, he promises to return for any other reason - Later in his life he continues to show loyalty when he supports the rightful heir, Hygelacs son,Heardred, to become King. When offered the Kingship, Beowulf, “true to his house-lord, would have nothing to say” and Heardred was made King instead of Beowulf. - Beowulf is an interesting character throughout his life because he showed loyalty even when he had done above and beyond service already.
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Outline P2.
Beowulf is also an interesting character because he combines being brave and courageous with also being morally good. - His three main acts of bravery are, firstly, killing Grendal with his bare hands, he then killed Grendel’s mother (Sea Hag) with a sword, and finally, he killed the dragon even though, “he knew this would be his last fight” - While these deeds were brave and courageous he did not do them for glory, instead he did them because, “it is time for me[Beowulf] to repay the debt’ of my father’s man price - Beowulf showed great bravery in defeating evil monsters but he was motivated by his moral code rather than seeking glory.
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Outline P3.
Beowulf is also an interesting character because of his determination in the face of enormous challenges. - Beowulf believed that ‘status’ was earned not given, for instance, when the Queen thanked him for coming so valiantly to their aid, he replied “valour is a word to use when the battle is over”. - Beowulf is saying not to praise him yet for he has done nothing to prove his worthiness. When the King, Hrothgar, asked him if he was still determined to fight Grendal, he replied: “I am not wont to change my purpose without cause”. - This shows how Beowulf was determined to follow through with his promise to fight Grendal and does not change his mind despite the danger. At end of his life, this character trait is shown again when he dies fighting the dragon. - Beowulf knew that “he was old” and “that this would be his last fight” but was determined to protect his people because he was “still the King”. - Beowulf is an interesting character because of his strong determination to battle enemies and protect his people regardless of his own safety.
