Beowulf Review: lines 258-1061

Grendel's Arm.

We are continuing our study of Beowulf; today we shall review the key sections before and after the slaying of Grendel, the hell-fiend, the kin of Cain, the malignant murderer. Let us also learn more about the society of the Anglo-Saxons.

Agenda:

1. Faeder ure.
2. Reading Check Quiz: Beowulf, lines 490-1061
1. Why and how does Hrothgar know of Beowulf, the Geat?
2. What was Beowulf's one request to King Hrothgar?
3. Why Unferth skeptical about Beowulf?
4. What does Hrothgar promise Beowulf if he defeats Grendel, and in what does he place his trust for such this battle?
5. How does Grendel approach Beowulf to attack him, and what does Beowulf display to prove his victory? 
3. Reading Journal (10/28): Beowulf, lines 1062-2489
1. Was Beowulf’s desire to take on Grendel motivated by revenge or vengeance? 
2. In the so-called “Finnsburg episode,” the story of the feud between the Danes and the Frisians under King Finn is recalled by the court poet at the celebration feast after Beowulf’s victory over Grendel.What motivated the Danes to break the truce with the Frisians, kill Finn, loot his strong- hold and take Hildeburh, his wife, back to Daneland?
3. After the Finnsburg episode, what does the Beowulf poet tells us of the future fate of the Geat king Hygelac?
4. Review HW:
1. Read Beowulf, lines 1062-2114.
2. Study your Notes on Anglo-Saxon England
3. Be wise; be perfect.