Beowulf and Heroism - Part I

Today and this week, we shall look into the concept of heroism as it relates not only to this poem but to our lives as Christians and to the culture. And remember our Latin Proverb of the week, Ignavum fortuna repugnat. Just as God "resists the proud," so does fortune "resist" the lazy. Think of this also in terms of heroism; the real hero is not passive, lazily waiting for fortune to make him a hero. The real hero makes himself a hero, proving it by his works.

Agenda:

1. Pray
2. Discuss RJ on Beowulf, lines 1062-2489
1. According to Anglo-Saxon culture as seen in Beowulf, what are the qualities for a hero?
2. Grendel is strong and subdues the Danes. What makes him not a hero? 
3. From what you've read in popular stories, legend, myth, etc. what are the common traits of a hero? 
4. What does our Modern culture say a hero is or must be? 
5. What does Hebrews 11 say about the qualities of a hero?
3. Review Anglo-Saxon Poetry Project:Write 20 lines of poem in Anglo-Saxon style. It can be on any subject, but try to relate it themes in Beowulf. Battle glory. Courage. Manliness. Slaying of monsters and dragons. Vengeance. Et cetera. Your poem must contain 5 kennings at minimum. You can use the kennings you already made or make up new ones. 
4. Review HW:
1. Finish reading Beowulf. All of it. (11/8).
2. Anglo-Saxon Poem Project
3. Norse Mythology Project
4. Study your Notes on Anglo-Saxon England
5. Be wise; be perfect.