Beowulf Flashcards

Front

The 3 evils in the epic poem Beowulf.

Back

Grendel, Grendel's mother, the dragon

Front

The epic poem Beowulf contains both ____________ and __________ elements.

Back

pagan and Christian

Front

The magnificent monsters of Beowulf are derived from the __________ of Scandinavian mythology.

Back

trolls

Front

What is happening at Herot when the story begins? Why does it anger Grendel?

Back

Hrothgar and his men are celebrating by praising god and creation. Grendel is a demon and cannot stand the sound of prayers, hymns, etc.

Front

What does Grendel do to the people at Herot?

Back

kills them and eats them

Front

Why does the watchman ask Beowulf about his father?

Back

A warrior's reputation was based on his father's reputation. If his father was honorable, he would also be viewed as honorable.

Front

How does Beowulf plan on killing Grendel?

Back

with his bare hands

Front

Why are Beowulf's men unable to help Beowulf kill Grendel?

Back

They are using swords and Grendel has a spell on him that prevents man made weapons from harming him.

Front

What does Beowulf hang from the rafters as proof that Grendel is dead?

Back

Grendel's arm

Front

Briefly describe the lake/marsh where Grendel and his mother lived. (Include at least 3 details from the poem)

Back

steam like black clouds, snake-like roots, the lake is on fire, the lake is bottomless, animals would rather die on the shore than enter the water to save themselves.