H Brit Lit Beowulf 3-101

According to Heaney, why does the narrator view Beowulf’s world as “an earlier state of consciousness and culture”?

Beowulf’s world is an earlier state of consciousness because the narrator, who is a Christian in England, is writing about a civilization that existed before his time, around 900 A.D.

What is the significance of Hrothgar’s family lineage?

Hrothgar’s lineage—Shielding Beow, and Halfdane—is significant because they established his leadership and created the Heorot.

What does Grendel hear that bothers him so much?

Grendel hears the clamor of the Heorot, which prompts him to attack.

Explain how Grendel is established in a Biblical context as an outcast.

Grendel is depicted as a descendant of Cain, who was cursed by God.

After the twelve years of attacks, what do some of Hrothgar’s people resort to that bothers the narrator?

They resort to paganism, making offerings in attempts to stop Grendel and his violence.

Why is Hrothgar’s coast guard a bit puzzled about the way in which Beowulf and his men approach?

The coast guard has never seen so many fully armed soldiers arrive in the middle of the day. They look like a raiding party but are walking up casually and do not look afraid.

In stating how he will fight Grendel, Beowulf says, “I hereby renounce” what?

Beowulf renounces his armor and sword, saying he will defeat Grendel with his hands.

What did Hrothgar once do that earned the gratitude of Beowulf’s father, Ecgtheow?

Hrothgar paid a wergild that prevented a war for Beowulf’s tribe after helping Ecgtheow resolve his conflict with the Geats.

What criticism does Unferth make of Beowulf?

Unferth says that Beowulf lost an epic swimming contest.

What does Beowulf say in response that embarrasses Unferth?

Beowulf says that Unferth killed his own kin.

Why might Beowulf deserve some criticism when the narrator says that “Hygelac’s kinsman was keenly watching”?

Beowulf sits and watches while one of his companions is being attacked by Grendel instead of immediately helping him.

What happens when Beowulf’s men “joined the struggle”?

Beowulf’s men’s swords do nothing to help Beowulf in his battle against Grendel.

What is “clear proof” that Grendel will likely die?

After Beowulf rips off Grendel’s arm, Grendel retreats to his lair, bleeding and dying.

What seems to be the purpose of the Heremod digression?

The Heremod digression warns Beowulf not to become a bad leader like Heremod and instead to be more like Sigemund.

Name two things that Hrothgar does to express his gratitude toward Beowulf.

Hrothgar adopts Beowulf as his son and gives Beowulf valuable treasures and presents.

In the Hengest/Finn digression, why do the Danes express resentment toward Hengest?

The Danes resent Hengest for submitting to the Frisians and making peace with them by accepting their terms.

What is Wealhtheow trying to convince everyone of when she says, “I am certain of Hrothulf”?

She is trying to convince everyone that Hrothulf is fit to follow as leader after Hrothgar.

Why doesn’t Beowulf defeat Grendel’s mother when she attacks?

He wasn’t present

Name two things that indicate the hellish and/or unnatural nature of the mere/lake.

1. A deer chooses to be killed by a predator rather than jump into the water. 2. The mere is home to hellish creatures such as Grendel’s mother.

Before Beowulf departs, what indicates that he and Unferth have reconciled?

Unferth gives Beowulf his sword.