Norse Historical Narrative and Beowulf Analysis

These flashcards cover the key events, characters, themes, and narrative elements in the Norse historical narrative and the analysis of Beowulf, aiding in exam preparation.

Who is Halfdan and what is his relationship to Harald and Frode?

Halfdan is the son of Harald and nephew of Frode, known for avenging his father's murder.

What unique ruling structure did Olaf establish with his sons Frode and Harald?

Olaf allowed Frode and Harald to alternate ruling the sea and land each year.

How did Frode's recruitment strategy for sea battles lead to his failure?

Frode recruited married men who were unmotivated to fight on the sea.

What strategy did Harald use that led to his success in ruling the sea?

Harald chose single men for his sea battles, leading to powerful victories.

What drastic action did Frode take due to jealousy of Harald's success?

Frode hired a hitman to kill Harald and then another hitman to kill the first.

How did Frode's paranoia manifest regarding the fate of Harald's sons?

Frode killed his father-in-law, Karl, after asking him who killed Harald.

What did the guardians do to protect Halfdan and Harald from Frode?

They faked the boys' deaths by using slave children’s bodies and hid them.

How did Frode respond to rumors of Halfdan and Harald's demise?

He sent an enchantress to confirm their deaths but was deceived by the boys.

What conditions did Frode set to spare Halfdan and Harald after Ragnar's appeal?

Frode agreed to spare them if Ragnar reported any attempts at vengeance.

What significant act did Halfdan and Harald commit against Frode?

They killed Frode by crushing him with stones and burning his house.

How was Halfdan portrayed after defeating Frode?

Halfdan ruled Denmark for 3 years then passed power to Harald while seeking conquests.

What were two of Halfdan's notable conquests according to the notes?

He ravaged Osland and Sweden and defeated Erik’s magical champion Hakon.

What title did the Swedes give Halfdan for his strength?

Biargramm, meaning 'rock strong'.

What tragic event occurred when Halfdan attempted to spare Erik's life?

Erik chose to die by beasts instead of serving Halfdan.

Who did Halfdan defeat that emphasized his great warrior abilities?

He defeated rovers Toke and Anund in a sea battle.

What did Halfdan achieve while waging war against Erik?

He successfully reclaimed territories and garnered respect as a great warrior.

What dilemma arose regarding Halfdan and King Siwald?

Siwald insulted Halfdan for being single and without children, seeking revenge for Frode.

What trick did Halfdan use against Ebbe, the poor rover?

Halfdan tricked and killed Ebbe to marry Sigrid.

Who were the children of Siwald, King of the Goths?

Wemund, Osten, and Alfhild.

What challenge did Siwald present to suitors of Alfhild?

Suitors had to defeat reptiles to win Alfhild's hand.

What subterfuge did Alfhild employ to escape her situation?

She dressed in male attire and became a pirate with her handmaidens.

What did Alf accomplish to earn Alfhild's hand?

He successfully defeated the reptiles and won Alfhild's consent.

What adventure did Alf undertake that showcased his bravery?

He saved trapped Blacmen from ice and defeated them.

Why does Saxo condemn Alfhild and her handmaidens?

He disapproves of their actions as sea rovers which oppose traditional values.

What tragic end befell Hamund's sons?

Hamund's sons were killed in a fight initiated by jealousy and betrayal.

How did Hagbard and Signe's tragic relationship unfold?

Hagbard disguises himself as a woman to speak to Signe, leading to their deaths.

What event set off the bloody battle between Siwald and Ragnald?

They clashed in a cowardly battle, with survivors siding with King Hakon.

What was the outcome of the conflict between Hakon and Siwald?

Siwald died and Hakon was defeated, leading to Borgar pursuing Hakon.

What became of Gurid, the last Royal Dane?

The kingdom was divided after her as the last royal heir.

What prompted Gunnar to attack Norway?

He fought Norway out of pride, leading to Ragnald hiding his daughter, Drota.

How did Gunnar treat Norway upon his victory?

He sent a dog as a governor and demanded double tribute.

What condition was Drota in while hiding from Gunnar?

She was hidden in a cave filled with weapons and armor.

What ultimately happened to Drota after Gunnar's defeat?

Borgar married Drota after Gunnar's death, despite her reluctance.

What was notable about Halfdan II’s early reputation?

He was initially thought to be dumb but proved to be a capable leader.

What injury did Halfdan sustain while battling?

He received a scar while fighting alongside his father against Rothe.

What promise did Halfdan extract from Gurid?

She would not marry anyone else until he proved himself noble in war.

What important battle did Halfdan participate in involving Russia?

He aided the Ruthenians against Alver, King of Sweden.

What unfortunate event occurred during Halfdan's fight with Hildiger?

Halfdan unintentionally killed Hildiger, who he later discovers is his brother.

What misfortune awaited Halfdan when returning from battle?

He was believed dead by the Danes, prompting a wedding for Gurid.

How did Beowulf initially reach Denmark?

He traveled with fourteen Geats to fight Grendel.

How did Beowulf's heroic reputation come into play when meeting Hrothgar?

Hrothgar recognized Beowulf as capable due to his connection to Ecgtheow.

What caused tension between Beowulf and Unferth?

Unferth accused Beowulf of losing a swimming match against Breca.

How did Beowulf respond to Unferth's accusations?

He claimed he lost due to fighting sea monsters while in armor.

What did Beowulf agree to do in his confrontation with Grendel?

He opted to fight Grendel without weapons or armor.

What strategy did Grendel employ during the battle in Heorot?

Grendel attacked by first killing Hondscio, one of Beowulf’s men.

What was the outcome of Beowulf’s fight with Grendel?

Beowulf ripped off Grendel's arm, leading to Grendel's retreat.

How was Grendel's death celebrated in Heorot?

Grendel's arm was displayed on a pedestal as a trophy.

Who sought vengeance after Beowulf's victory over Grendel?

Grendel's mother came to avenge her son's death.

What sword did Beowulf receive from Unferth for the fight against Grendel's mother?

The sword Hrunting.

How did Beowulf defeat Grendel's mother?

He used a special sword made by giants during their battle.

What was Beowulf’s fate after his encounters with Grendel and his mother?

He returned to Geatland and shared tales of his victories.

What suspicion arose with Hygelac regarding his daughter Freawaru?

Beowulf doubted her marriage would end conflicts with the Heatho-Bards.

What became of Hygelac in battle that changed the throne of Geatland?

Hygelac died in battle and Beowulf inherited the throne.

What new threat arose during Beowulf's later reign?

A dragon began terrorizing Geatland after a slave stole its treasure.

What ultimately happened during Beowulf's battle with the dragon?

He defeated the dragon but was mortally wounded.

What legacy did Beowulf leave behind after his death?

He was remembered greatly by the Geats, even as they faced the dragon's cursed treasure.

What traditional values does Beowulf embody throughout the narrative?

Heroism, loyalty, and the pursuit of glory.

What themes are explored in the poem Beowulf?

Loyalty, kinship, identity, and the concept of heroism.

How did critics perceive the poem's influences regarding its ideological themes?

Some argue for pagan influences, while others suggest a Christian viewpoint.

What central story does the poem of Beowulf recount?

The heroic deeds of Beowulf, from fighting Grendel to his final battle with a dragon.

How does the poem Beowulf conclude?

It ends with Beowulf's death and the ensuing mourning of his people.

What role does treasure play in Beowulf's narrative?

Treasure signifies valor, reputation, and the rewards of a hero's accomplishments.

What does the struggle against Grendel symbolize in the poem?

The struggle against chaos and the defense of civilization.

Why are Hrothgar’s hall and its destruction significant?

They represent the fragility of human accomplishments against evil.

What was the purpose of the digressions in Beowulf’s story?

To add depth to the history and character relationships in the narrative.

How is kinship portrayed as a vital theme in Beowulf?

Through the strong bonds and responsibilities among warriors and their lords.

What does Beowulf’s refusal to use weapons against Grendel convey?

A demonstration of his strength and fairness in combat.

How does the poem classify various rulers and their legacies?

By contrasting good rulers, like Beowulf, with tyrannical kings.

How does the hero code manifest through Beowulf’s actions?

He embodies strength, loyalty, courage, and the desire for glory throughout his life.

What is revealed about mortality in the poem Beowulf?

Death is a constant presence, shaping heroism and legacy.