Beowulf Study Questions

With your partner, answer the following on a sheet of paper in COMPLETE sentences:

1. Describe the demon who threatens the meadhall.
2. To what Biblical figure is Grendel related? What does this tell us about Grendel (look up the Bible story if you need to do so)?
3. According to the poet, who made the earth?
4. The word Heorot, the name of Hrothgar's mead hall, is Old English for hart, a male European red deer at least five years old. Considering this meaning, do you believe Heorot is an apt name for the mead hall? Is the mead hall also the "heart" of Hrothgar's kingdom? Explain your answers.
5. While Grendel attacks Heorot, he does NOT approach what? Why?
6. To whom/what do many of the Danes’ “powerful counsellors” turn for help? Does the speaker of this poem think this is a good idea? How can you tell?
7. Who is Beowulf's father? What is the world’s opinion of him? What does the fact that he lived "many winters" tell us about his skills?
8. After he arrives at Heorot, Beowulf tells stories about himself: how he battled trolls, killed sea beasts, and painted himself red with the blood of his enemies. Do you believe his accounts indicate that he is a proud, boastful person?
9. What project does Hrothgar order undertaken to ensure his fame? What is the name of that constuction project?
10.What typical activities do the people engage in at this place Hrothgar makes?
11.How long does Grendel haunt Heorot until Beowulf comes to help the Danes?
12. Who invites or asks Beowulf to come kill Grendel? What does this tell us about Beowulf's personality?