Beowulf: Complete Study Guide

Flashcards summarizing key characters, themes, and plot points from 'Beowulf' to aid in studying for the test.

Beowulf

Hero of the Geats who fights Grendel, Grendel’s Mother, and a dragon; represents courage, loyalty, and heroism.

Wiglaf

A young warrior, loyal to Beowulf, who helps him fight the dragon; symbolizes true heroism.

Hrothgar

King of the Danes who builds Heorot and offers wisdom about leadership and humility.

Grendel

A monster and descendant of Cain who terrorizes Heorot and is killed by Beowulf.

Grendel’s Mother

Seeks revenge for Grendel's death and is killed by Beowulf.

Dragon

A creature that guards treasure and kills Beowulf after attacking Geatland.

Heorot

The mead hall built by Hrothgar, symbolizing civilization and community.

Earnaness

Beowulf’s burial site located at a sea cliff overlooking Geatland.

Geats

Beowulf’s people who mourn his death and build his funeral pyre.

Heroism & Fame

Theme representing bravery, strength, and loyalty, exemplified by Beowulf's legacy.

Loyalty

A theme demonstrated by Wiglaf's support for Beowulf against the dragon.

Fate / Mortality

Theme reflecting that even heroes die; Beowulf accepts his fate.

Leadership & Wisdom

Theme where Hrothgar teaches humility while Beowulf leads Geats responsibly.

Legacy

Theme symbolized by Beowulf's funeral and treasure, representing what one leaves behind.

Good vs Evil

Theme illustrated through the conflict between monsters and humans.

Pagan & Christian

Theme contrasting the Pagan hero code with Christian morality concepts.

Protects people, seeks glory

Motivation of Beowulf, following the heroic code.

Loyalty; honor

Motivation of Wiglaf in supporting Beowulf.

Respond to theft

Motivation of the dragon to protect its treasure.

Fear leads to fleeing

Motivation of the other Geats, contrasting with Wiglaf's actions.

Teach wisdom, leadership lessons

Motivation of Hrothgar.

Early heroism

Beowulf's actions against Grendel and Grendel’s Mother, showcasing courage and strength.

Later heroism

Beowulf's self-sacrifice during the dragon battle, highlighting leadership and legacy.

True heroism

Wiglaf's belief showing that supporting others is essential, even in danger.

Power and strength alone are not enough

Hrothgar’s wisdom emphasizing the need for humility.

Glory is earned through heroic deeds

Beowulf’s belief regarding the importance of fame.

Even great heroes face death

Lesson learned in the dragon battle, showing that courage appears in final moments.