Beowulf: Key Characters and Events

Beowulf, an epic poem in Old English, tells the story of a heroic warrior who battles monsters to protect kingdoms. The poem begins with Grendel terrorizing the Danes, leading Beowulf to come to their aid. After defeating Grendel and his vengeful mother, Beowulf returns home, eventually becoming king. In his later years, he faces a dragon threatening his kingdom, ultimately sacrificing his life to defeat it. The poem explores themes of heroism, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.

What is the significance of Beowulf in English literature?

• It was written by a famous English king.

• It is the first poem to mention dragons.

• It is the longest poem in English history.

• It is the first known epic written in English.

Who is the monster that Beowulf first battles in Denmark?

• Grendel's mother

• A fire-breathing dragon

• Grendel

• A sea serpent

How does Beowulf defeat Grendel?

• By using a magical sword

• By catching Grendel's arm in a death grip

• By setting a trap

• By using a bow and arrow

What prompts Grendel's mother to seek revenge?

• The death of her son, Grendel

• The theft of her treasure

• An insult from Beowulf

• The destruction of her lair

What does Beowulf use to finally defeat Grendel's mother?

• A spear given by Hrothgar

• A sword he finds in her lair

• A magical shield

• His bare hands

What reward does Beowulf receive upon returning to Geatland?

• A golden crown

• A magical sword

• Half the kingdom

• A new ship

What causes the dragon to attack Beowulf's kingdom?

• A challenge from Beowulf

• A stolen golden cup

• A natural disaster

• A prophecy

Who remains by Beowulf's side during his final battle?

• Hrothgar

• Wiglaf

• Unferth

• Hygelac

What is Beowulf's final request before he dies?

• To be buried at sea

• To have Wiglaf inherit the dragon's treasure

• To be remembered as a great king

• To have a grand feast in his honor

What do the Geats do with the dragon's treasure after Beowulf's death?

• They throw it into the sea

• They distribute it among the warriors

• They return it to the dragon's lair

• They bury it with Beowulf