study guide

Definition of sentinel :

A soldier or guard whose job is to stand and keep watch.

Synonyms : lookout, protector, guard

Definition of grievous :

Of something bad, very severe or serious.

Synonyms : grave, terrible, awful

Definition of rancor :

Bitterness or resentfulness, especially when long-standing

Synonyms : hatred, antipathy, enmity

Definition of winsome :

Attractive or appealing in appearance or character.

Synonyms : charming, winning, enchanting

Definition of blithe :

Showing a casual and cheerful indifference considered to be callous or improper.

Synonyms : thoughtless, uncaring, indifferent

Definition of solace :

Comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness.

Synonyms : cheer, support, relief

Definition of writhing :

To twist the body about, or squirm, as in pain or violent effort.

Synonyms : wiggle, twist, twitch

Definition of massive :

Large and solid.

Synonyms : gigantice, huge, enormous

Definition of heathen :

Someone who does not acknowledge the God of the Bible.

Synonyms : nonbeliever, atheist, infidel

Definition of fiend :

A diabolically cruel or evil person; historically, the devil.

Synonyms : demon, spirit, bogie

Beowulf

The protagonist. Geatish hero who fights the monster Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a fire breathing dragon. The strongest, ablest warrior around.

Grendel

A demon/monster. Grendel preys on Hrothgar's warriors in the king's mead hall, Herot.

King Hrothgar

The king of the danes. A wise and aged ruler. Father figure to Beowulf and a model for the kind of king that Beowulf becomes.

Healfdane

The father of Hrothgar, Heorogar, Halga and an unnamed daughter who married a king of the Swedes. Healfdane succeeded Beow as ruler of the Danes.