beowulf

Who is Beowulf?

A Geatish hero who defeats monsters and later becomes king of Geats.

What is Heorot?

The magnificent mead-hall built by King Hrothgar, which is terrorized by Grendel.

Who is Grendel?

A monstrous descendant of Cain who attacks Heorot for 12 years.

How does Beowulf defeat Grendel?

He wrestles Grendel and tears off his arm, leading to Grendel's death.

Who is Grendel's Mother?

A swamp hag who seeks revenge for her son Grendel's death.

How does Beowulf defeat Grendel's Mother?

He kills her with a giant's sword found in her lair.

What is a 'kenning'?

A compound metaphorical expression used in Old English and Norse poetry (e.g., 'whale-road' for sea, 'ring-giver' for king).

What is 'alliteration'?

The repetition of initial consonant sounds in a line of poetry, a common feature in Old English verse.

What is 'wyrd'?

An Old English concept referring to fate or destiny.

Who is Hrothgar?

The King of the Danes and builder of Heorot, who seeks Beowulf's help against Grendel.

What is the significance of the dragon in Beowulf?

The third and final monster Beowulf fights, representing a new kind of evil and ultimately leading to Beowulf's death.

Who is Wiglaf?

Beowulf's loyal kinsman and only warrior who assists him in fighting the dragon. He becomes Beowulf's successor.

What genre is Beowulf?

An Old English epic poem.