Literary Terms from Beowulf

This set of flashcards covers key literary elements and concepts related to Beowulf and its themes.

Beowulf

An epic poem that is one of the most important works of Old English literature.

Imagery

Words that paint a picture in the reader's mind.

Theme

The moral or lesson of the story.

Foreshadowing

Subtle hints about future events in the narrative.

Symbolism

An object that represents an idea.

Personification

An animal or object described with human characteristics.

Simile

A comparison using 'like' or 'as'.

Metaphor

A comparison made without using 'like' or 'as'.

Irony

A situation where what really shouldn’t happen, happens.

Alliteration

The occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.

Protagonist

The main character or hero in the story.

Antagonist

The villain or opposing force in the story.

Conflict: Man vs. Man

A struggle between characters.

Conflict: Man vs. Nature

A conflict between a character and natural forces.

Conflict: Man vs. Self

A struggle within a character's own mind.

Anglo-Saxon

People who lived in Great Britain and spoke Old English.

Conflict: Man vs. Fate/God/Destiny/Calling

A struggle between a character and predetermined forces.